With a core purpose rooted in Simplifying Surface Finishing® and a R&D team led by world renowned decorative trivalent plating expert Mark Schario and dedicated to developing innovative products that solve plating problems, it was only a matter of time before Columbia Chemical launched its next breakthrough process.
Product Showcase: Introducing TriCOL® Reclaim
Innovation has arrived in Decorative Trivalent Plating with the introduction of Columbia Chemical's TriCOL® Reclaim. The cost difference between hexavalent and trivalent chrome plating has always been a stumbling block for plating shops wanting to make the switch. And for those shops already running trivalent, the cost is often 3-4x higher than standard hex chrome. Reclaim of trivalent chromium solution is extremely cost beneficial, however the buildup of the counterions within traditional trivalent systems has always limited reclamation. UNTIL NOW...
TriCOL® Reclaim features a unique formulation that prevents the buildup of counterions. Unlike traditional trivalent systems, gravity does not go up over time so the process allows for reclamation. This translates to one of the biggest benefits of TriCOL® Reclaim - the cost savings. With savings of 40-60% over existing tri-chrome processes, this new system provides decorative plating costs per square foot that are comparable to hex chrome. In addition, replenishment is simplified with a single liquid additive featuring pre-complexed chromium. This innovation means no more heating to complex the chrome - it can be used on an auto-feeder, saving shops valuable time and labor. Another benefit is the elimination of chrome dust - no more messy powder or chrome dust exposure for operators. Another step to enhance employee safety! With field production runs in full gear, applicators are astonished with the results (cost savings, ease of use, quality and appearance like never before) and new shops are clamoring for the process. If you are interested in joining in on implementing this breakthrough process at your facility, contact us for a cost analysis today.
Tech Feature: Q&A Clinic on Zinc Nickel
Explaining the Benefits of Zinc-Nickel and Overview of Alkaline & Acid Zn-Ni
Chad Murphy, Technical Account Manager, was recently featured in the Ask the Expert column in Products Finishing magazine. Read his Q & A clinic here where he explains the benefits of zinc-nickel and and offers an overview of the difference between alkaline and acid zinc-nickel and touches on the popularity and market growth. The article explores the hardness, heat resistance and high alloy benefits of the deposit which contribute to its popularity in the automotive, construction and aerospace industries. It goes on to explore the differences and benefits of each system and reviews the importance of operating control and parameters, particularly within the acid zinc-nickel system. A knowledgeable chemistry supplier can make a world of difference when aligning your zinc-nickel process to match your specific plating needs. Columbia Chemical has been consulted heavily by OEMs and Tier suppliers on the topic of zinc nickel as it is incorporated into additional OEM specs and the market continues to grow.
If you are currently considering adding zinc-nickel plating to your services or evaluating your current process to achieve greater operational efficiency, reach out to your Columbia Chemical Technical Specialist! Or submit your questions directly to techquestions@columbiachemical.com
Finisher's Advantage® Makes a Difference
The Finishers Advantage® is our way of describing the partnering approach that we use when we work with our plating shop customers. Columbia Chemical’s Finisher’s Advantage® Program is all about Partnering for Success. It is the full offering of our product and support services where we apply our surface finishing expertise, technical knowledge, and laboratory resources to help our plating shop customers reach and maintain their quality and throughput goals.
The first phase in our approach is to assess the problem. Our team will talk with you to listen and understand the challenges you are facing. We then review the process and variables and identify your desired outcome. From there, our goal is to provide solutions. We will run any necessary analysis in our lab, research and troubleshoot the situation with our team of experts and then define and communicate the solutions back to you. Another commitment in our proven process is to deliver added value to you, our partner. We do this by providing routine sample testing and tracking reports, performing line audits as needed, offering the opportunity to be part of our CAR audit program (Columbia Approved Resource) and by providing you with consistent access to our expert technical assistance. Your success is our success, so we work with each of our customers to build and support you and your business. Training and education are available to your team, our research and development department is committed to ongoing, innovative product development to benefit our customers and you receive individualized service with your personal account manager and your dedicated customer service rep. In a recent survey, 96% of our customers said that "understanding plating challenges" and "providing technical support and assistance" are some of Columbia's top strengths. If your chemistry supplier is not offering the service and support you deserve, contact us to discover the benefits of Columbia Chemical's Finisher's Advantage®.
Delivering superior plating solutions and the highest level of expertise to our customers through our Finisher's Advantage program.
Columbia Chemical Corp.
330-225-3200