ANO-TALK: All Things Anodizing

Summary The ANO-Talk hosts sit down with Barb “the cleaning lady” and Ed Kanegsberg of BFK Solutions LLC  at the Aluminum Summit in Atlanta Georgia. The conversation explores various themes related to the anodizing industry, including personal anecdotes, resilience in business, the importance of education and training, regulatory challenges, and the significance of employee safety. The speakers emphasize the need for adaptability in the face of changing regulations and the importance of effective communication with regulators. They also discuss the future of anodizing and the dynamics of the supply chain, highlighting the necessity of making learning engaging and fun for employees. Takeaways The importance of resilience and adaptability in business. Education and training should focus on teaching critical thinking. Regulatory challenges are accelerating in the chemical industry. Employee safety is paramount in manufacturing environments. Effective communication with regulators is essential for industry success. The anodizing industry faces unique challenges due to environmental regulations. Making learning engaging can enhance employee retention and understanding. Collaboration between management and technicians leads to better outcomes. Understanding the risks and benefits of chemicals is crucial for safety. The future of anodizing will depend on innovation and adaptability.

Summary In this engaging outdoor podcast, the hosts discuss the importance of safety and workforce issues in the aluminum industry, featuring insights from Jeanette Courtney, Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Bonnell Aluminum. The conversation highlights an upcoming joint workshop focused on safety and HR, the achievement of three years without recordable injuries at Bonnell, and the significance of employee engagement and feedback in fostering a safe work environment. The hosts emphasize the value of networking and learning opportunities for both large and small businesses in the industry.   Takeaways The podcast was recorded outdoors for the first time. Jeanette Courtney emphasizes the importance of safety in the aluminum industry. Bonnell Aluminum achieved three years without recordable injuries. Workshops will cover safety and HR topics for industry professionals. Employee engagement is crucial for safety improvements. Feedback from employees leads to actionable safety changes. Networking opportunities are valuable for HR and safety professionals. Small businesses can benefit from learning about industry best practices. The event encourages participation from all levels of the industry. Team Discounts Available - Open To Members & Non Members of the Aluminum Extruders Council  Details & Registration - https://members.aec.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1970710&group=

In this episode of ANO-TALK, the hosts discuss the upcoming AAC Regional Forum, highlighting its purpose, accessibility, and the exciting tour of the Aacron’s Anodizing facility. Michael McGinty shares insights on the event's structure, including technical presentations and networking opportunities, emphasizing the importance of collaboration within the anodizing industry. The conversation also touches on the future of regional forums and the significance of member engagement in driving the anodizing community forward.   For More details about the Regional Event Visit - https://members.anodizing.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1963628 AAC Regional Forum - Minneapolis Join fellow anodizing professionals from Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, and more for a one-day networking and educational event. This regional gathering brings together local companies to share knowledge, discuss industry trends, and build connections within the anodizing community. You will want to attend this special event to: Learn from industry experts Gain the latest information on quality anodizing techniques Improve your anodizing knowledge, and Expand your understanding of anodizing processes.   Event Highlights: Education specifically geared toward aluminum anodizers  Professional networking with regional anodizing companies Exclusive tour of Aacron's anodizing facilities Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and refreshments throughout the day Industry insights and best practices sharing When: July 22, 2025 8 AM - 4 PM Where: Map this event » Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West 3131 Campus Drive MInneapolis, Minnesota  55441 United States Contact: Selina Gomez-Beloz sgomezbeloz@tso.net 847-416-7221

In part two of a two part series, Mark, George & Tej sit down with Anne Deacon Juhl and discuss the anodizing industry, exploring her journey, visionary perspectives, unique expertise, and the challenges and opportunities within the field. We delve into the importance of education, sustainability, and customer relations, while also addressing misconceptions and defining what makes a world-class anodizer. We explore the readiness for implementing pulse anodizing, the translation of lab recipes to production, and the value of being part of anodizing organizations. Our discussion emphasizes the need for a structured approach to anodizing to meet customer demands and improve efficiency. About The Alumnium Anodizers Council The Aluminum Anodizers Council (AAC) is the international trade association of firms engaged in aluminum anodizing and whose mission it is to support members and users of anodized aluminum through education, advocacy and promotion. AAC is a progressive and influential industry force, a reputation proudly earned through years of dedication, commitment, and involvement by its members. Members gain exposure to non-members and potential customers through the AAC brand. https://www.anodizing.org/ About Anne Deacon Juhl Passion for anodizing and aluminum surface finish  For 25 years my professional life has centered around aluminum and anodizing.  Anodizing has great advantages. Firstly, it is the most sustainable surface finish of aluminum out there. Secondly, anodizing (when done right) can make aluminum parts last a lifetime. A benefit to both you, your customers and the environment. And thirdly, anodizing can make your products, buildings, airplanes etc. look beautiful. I’ve seen almost everything that can go wrong in the anodizing process, or when you order parts from an anodizer and haven’t gotten your specifications right.  Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annedeaconjuhl/ AluConsult - A Knowledge-based Company AluConsult is an engineering consultancy company that was set up by Anne Deacon Juhl, on 1st March 1999. During her first assignment, she joined one of the leading Danish companies specializing in anodizing, where she was employed for three years, as Quality Assurance & Development and Research Manager. In order to accomplish AluConsult's vision, i.e. to become a competent, professional sparring partner assisting the aluminum industry, Anne Deacon Juhl decided to devote all her time to AluConsult as from Summer 2002. Since then, she has been involved in highly stimulating aluminum projects, international networking and a wide array of activities which have familiarized her with the companies operating in the aluminum industry. To be internationally involved a move to San Diego, California was done during the period 2008 - 2009. Here AluConsult LLC was started in order to create value for our clients through knowledge and openness. After 10 years of consultancy for AluConsult, Anne Deacon Juhl, worked fulltime as ME and Supervisor for the Surface Treatment department at Terma Aerostructure. Here new knowledge and a lot of great hands on experience was gained with chromic acid anodizing and chemical milling of aluminum, passivation of stainless steel, which were all some of the processes done by Terma Aerostructure. Now back in business as fulltime consultant for the world wide aluminum industry Anne Deacon Juhl wants to fulfill her life mission to help companies use aluminum at its optimum. https://aluconsult.com/

In this conversation, our hosts, Mark, George & Tej discuss the implications of the Republican trifecta in government, focusing on regulatory changes, energy policy, and the anodizing industry. Joined by Charlie Simmons, a legal expert, provides insights into the expected executive orders and cabinet picks under the new administration, emphasizing the potential rollback of previous regulations and the impact on environmental policies. The discussion also touches on the future of energy, including the role of nuclear power and artificial intelligence in shaping energy demands. The conversation delves into the implications of leadership changes in the energy sector, particularly focusing on Chris Wright's role at Liberty Energy and his stance on energy policy. It transitions into discussions about the Labor Department and OSHA regulations, highlighting the proposed heat injury prevention rule and its potential impact on workplace safety. The dialogue further explores the evolving landscape of intellectual property within the anodizing industry, particularly in relation to new technologies and regulations. Takeaways + The Republican trifecta will significantly influence policy direction. + Executive orders are expected to reverse many previous regulations. + Energy policy will shift towards fossil fuels under the new administration. + AI's demand for energy will drive changes in energy sourcing. + Nuclear energy is gaining attention as a reliable power source. + The anodizing industry may experience regulatory changes affecting operations. + Cabinet picks will play a crucial role in shaping environmental regulations. + The sue and settle practice will likely be banned again. + There is a growing interest in reprocessing nuclear fuel to reduce waste. + A balanced energy portfolio is essential for future sustainability. Chris Wright is a significant figure in energy policy. + Expect deregulatory changes under the new administration. + Robert Kennedy Jr. may push for new health regulations. + The Department of Labor's role is crucial in workplace safety. + OSHA's proposed heat injury rule may face legal challenges. + Employers must be proactive about heat safety measures. + Intellectual property developments are crucial for the anodizing industry. + New patents are emerging for non-Chrome 6 substitutes. + The anodizing industry is adapting to regulatory changes. About The Alumnium Anodizers Council The Aluminum Anodizers Council (AAC) is the international trade association of firms engaged in aluminum anodizing and whose mission it is to support members and users of anodized aluminum through education, advocacy and promotion. AAC is a progressive and influential industry force, a reputation proudly earned through years of dedication, commitment, and involvement by its members. Members gain exposure to non-members and potential customers through the AAC brand. https://www.anodizing.org/

In part one of a two part series, Mark, George & Tej sit down with Anne Deacon Juhl and discuss the anodizing industry, exploring her journey, visionary perspectives, unique expertise, and the challenges and opportunities within the field. We delve into the importance of education, sustainability, and customer relations, while also addressing misconceptions and defining what makes a world-class anodizer. This discussion highlights regional variations in practices and emphasizes the need for a more open and innovative approach to anodizing. In this conversation, the crew discuss the significance of collaboration in the anodizing industry, the increasing involvement of women, and the technical aspects of pulse anodizing. We explore how pulse anodizing can enhance efficiency and energy savings, while also engaging with the next generation of professionals eager to learn and innovate in the field in part two. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of pulse anodizing, discussing its benefits, the Scandinavian optimization process, and the importance of consistency and education in anodizing operations. We explore the readiness for implementing pulse anodizing, the translation of lab recipes to production, and the value of being part of anodizing organizations. Our discussion emphasizes the need for a structured approach to anodizing to meet customer demands and improve efficiency.   About The Alumnium Anodizers Council The Aluminum Anodizers Council (AAC) is the international trade association of firms engaged in aluminum anodizing and whose mission it is to support members and users of anodized aluminum through education, advocacy and promotion. AAC is a progressive and influential industry force, a reputation proudly earned through years of dedication, commitment, and involvement by its members. Members gain exposure to non-members and potential customers through the AAC brand. https://www.anodizing.org/ About Anne Deacon Juhl Passion for anodizing and aluminum surface finish  For 25 years my professional life has centered around aluminum and anodizing.  Anodizing has great advantages. Firstly, it is the most sustainable surface finish of aluminum out there. Secondly, anodizing (when done right) can make aluminum parts last a lifetime. A benefit to both you, your customers and the environment. And thirdly, anodizing can make your products, buildings, airplanes etc. look beautiful. I’ve seen almost everything that can go wrong in the anodizing process, or when you order parts from an anodizer and haven’t gotten your specifications right.  Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annedeaconjuhl/ AluConsult - A Knowledge-based Company AluConsult is an engineering consultancy company that was set up by Anne Deacon Juhl, on 1st March 1999. During her first assignment, she joined one of the leading Danish companies specializing in anodizing, where she was employed for three years, as Quality Assurance & Development and Research Manager. In order to accomplish AluConsult's vision, i.e. to become a competent, professional sparring partner assisting the aluminum industry, Anne Deacon Juhl decided to devote all her time to AluConsult as from Summer 2002. Since then, she has been involved in highly stimulating aluminum projects, international networking and a wide array of activities which have familiarized her with the companies operating in the aluminum industry. To be internationally involved a move to San Diego, California was done during the period 2008 - 2009. Here AluConsult LLC was started in order to create value for our clients through knowledge and openness. After 10 years of consultancy for AluConsult, Anne Deacon Juhl, worked fulltime as ME and Supervisor for the Surface Treatment department at Terma Aerostructure. Here new knowledge and a lot of great hands on experience was gained with chromic acid anodizing and chemical milling of aluminum, passivation of stainless steel, which were all some of the processes done by Terma Aerostructure. Now back in business as fulltime consultant for the world wide aluminum industry Anne Deacon Juhl wants to fulfill her life mission to help companies use aluminum at its optimum. https://aluconsult.com/  

In this episode of ANO-talk, the official podcast of the Aluminum Anodizers Council, hosts George, Mark & Tej give us a detailed preview of the upcoming 33rd Aluminum Anodizers Council Annual Conference in Cleveland October 1st-3rd. This years exciting theme, "Anodizing: The Rockstar Finish," ties into Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Gain insights into ths years program's lineup, including technical sessions on wastewater treatment and pulse anodizing, leadership talks, and the integration of academic research with industrial applications. The episode also emphasizes the value of AAC membership renewal and the networking opportunities available at the conference. Listeners are encouraged to attend the conference, whether they're seasoned anodizing professionals or newcomers to the industry, with the promise of valuable learning experiences, networking opportunities, and a touch of fun with the "rockstar" theme.   For more details visit: www.anodizing.org  

George Oh & Judy Runge join Jason Weber of the AEC to discuss their upcoming Anodizing Essentials Workshop at this years ET'24 event in Orlando. For more details visit: ET In-Conjunction Workshops | Aluminum Extruders Council (aec.org) AAC Anodizing Essentials Class 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Fee: $495 AAC members / $895 nonmembers Instructors: AAC member anodizing experts Anodizing Essentials is part of the Aluminum Anodizers Council's (AAC) "School for Anodizers" that teaches more than the fundamentals of anodizing. This one-day class is designed to increase the knowledge and ability of anyone involved in operating an anodizing line. Anodizing Essentials Class details the foundation of quality anodizing, taking the learner through the entire process - beginning with the metallurgical properties of aluminum alloys commonly anodized through to the final rinse and sealing processes. The program is designed to benefit anodizing production personnel at every level-from the line operator to the production manager, particularly if they are new to the business. Workshop topics include: Anodizing Overview and Anodizing Video Metallurgy Basics for Aluminum Surfaces Racking Cleaning & Rinsing Etch, Desmut & Bright Dipping Anodizing Basics for Aluminum Surfaces Power - Rectifiers & Transformers for the Aluminum Surface Treatment Industry Dyeing & Electrolytic Coloring Sealing the Anodic Oxide    

Tin Electrolytic Coloring with Pinakin Patel  Electrolytic (or two-step) coloring is one of the most durable metal coloring methods on the market, even outperforming paint. Electrolytic coloring is primarily used on extruded aluminum parts for the architectural (store front), and automotive trim industries due to its durability. Our hosts Tej Patel of Techevon LLC and George Oh of Quaker Houghton discuss the process of tin electrolytic coloring with Pinakin Patel, owner of Techevon LLC, a global anodizing chemistry supplier in Chicago, IL. Electrolytic coloring, as noted by our hosts, is a combination of “science, sorcery, and luck”. Pinakin describes the basic science and history of electrolytic coloring and colors available for aluminum anodizing. One of the biggest advantages of electrolytic coloring is its light- and weather-fastness. In this episode, Pinakin focuses on the tin electrolytic coloring method and specific equipment, chemicals and processes that need to be considered to ensure consistent color. 

Pinakin Patel on Mid-Temperature Sealing  Our hosts, George Oh of Quaker Houghton and Tej Patel of Techevon, talk with anodizing industry expert Pinakin Patel, owner of Techevon LLC, a global anodizing chemistry supplier in Chicago, IL. Pinakin explains what mid-temperature seals are, the types of mid-temperature seals, his patent on sealing of aluminum oxide, nickel-free mid-temp seals, types of surfactants and how they interact with sealing methods. Comparison of different sealing methods to mid-temperature seals and its environmental impact. Be sure to join us at the 2023 Anodizing Conference on October 10-12 in Bellevue/Seattle, Washington. Learn more at www.anodizing.org/AnodizingConference where Pinakin will also be speaking. 

2023 Anodizing Conference Preview George Oh of Quaker Houghton and Co-Chair of the AAC Education Committee, Tej Patel of Techevon, and Mark Spencer of AaCron Anodizing talk with AAC President Jeff Henderson about what to look forward to at the 32nd Annual Anodizing Conference & Exposition, October 9-12, 2023 in Bellevue/Seattle, Washington. Listen to this episode to get a feel for what to expect, what you’ll learn, and how you will benefit by joining us at the 2023 Anodizing Conference. Visit www.anodizing.org/AnodizingConference for program and registration details.

Heavy Metal-free Dyes  Mahe Chandrasekaran, Chemical Engineer with Techevon, LLC, joins our hosts George Oh, R&D Senior Chemist with Quaker Houghton and Tej Patel, Director with Techevon, to discuss which heavy metals show up in the anodizing industry, heavy metal-free dyes, why use metals in dyes compared to metal-free dyes, which heavy metals are used in dyes for the anodizing industry, and the advantages and disadvantages for each dye type.  They also discuss the types of colors one can get using various dyes for aluminum anodizing. To hear more of this type of educational content, be sure to attend the 2023 Anodizing Conference & Exposition on October 10-12 in Bellevue (Seattle), Washington. Visit www.anodizing.org/AnodizingConference for program and registration details. 

The Environmentally Friendly Anodizing Line Rob Pawson of Haviland Products talks with Mark, George, and Tej about creating an anodizing line that is environmentally friendly. PFAS regulations, dealing with other city, state and federal water regulations, the cost for installing scrubbers, and solutions for water discharge treatment are covered. Rob discusses how chemical manufacturers are continually coming up with more environmentally friendly solutions—from non-nickel seals and spray rinses to metal-free dyes—to help anodizers reduce water use and reduce the environmental impact of wastewater discharge.

Promoting Careers in the Anodizing Industry Kevin Janis, Business Development Manager for Reliant Aluminum Products, talks with hosts George Oh and Mark Spencer about his career path versus his expectations, challenges in hiring for the anodizing industry, what might attract young people to the industry, doing more to share information about the beauty of anodizing, and more.

Meet the Industry Figure: Kevin Janis, Reliant Aluminum Products Our podcast hosts, Mark Spencer, George Oh and Tej Patel, talk with Kevin Janis, Business Development Manager for Reliant Aluminum Products to learn more about his 25-year career in the aluminum finishing industry. Kevin’s background as a lawyer, his love of college football at his alma mater University of Wisconsin, his experience with a “wood-fired bright dip anodizing line” early in his career, and what he does during his down time are explored. Here Kevin’s perspective on the benefits of attending the Anodizing Conference every year in this enlightening episode.

Dan Bishopp, Quaker Houghton, on Acid Etch Dan Bishopp, Regional Sales Manager for Quaker Houghton, discusses his start in the aluminum extrusion industry and his eventual move into the anodizing line in the 1980s with Bonnell Aluminum in Kentland, Indiana with our hosts Mark Spencer and George Oh. He discusses his career trajectory from line worker to Process Improvement Manager with Bonnell Aluminum and then to Regional Sales Manager with Quaker Houghton. Dan explains how the Dallas Cowboy’s Stadium project became the first architectural acid etch job in the United States. The eventual adoption of the acid etch process in the U.S., which reduces streaking on aluminum extrusions, and how the acid etch process may have increased the volume of anodizing today is also discussed.

Meet the Industry Figure: Rob Pawson Rob Pawson, Vice President of Haviland Products in Grand Rapid, Michigan, talks with our hosts about his company, the anodizing industry, the benefits of membership and committee involvement in the Aluminum Anodizers Council, as well as Rob’s longevity in the industry.

Bill Zahner and Aluminum Anodizing President & CEO of A. Zahner Company, Bill Zahner, talks with our hosts to tell us a little about his background, and his company. The company, founded in 1887, is a pioneer in architectural metal fabrication, engineering and installation. Bill, a prolific writer, talks about the lack of knowledge of architectural metals during the research of his first book. The hosts dig into his book Aluminum Surfaces: A Guide to Alloys, Finishes, Fabrication and Maintenance in Architecture and Art, and discuss aluminum anodizing, its characteristics, how Zahner approaches anodizing finishes and how it differs from paint. Learn also what Bill does in his downtime, his aluminum finishing tips, and the differences between the use of anodized aluminum in the U.S. and Europe in this fascinating episode.

Sequel Anodizing Racks Get into the details about anodizing racking with Kyle and Peter Schumer of Sequel Anodizing Racks, a 35-year-old family-owned and operated racking company in Minnesota. Kyle and Peter talk with our hosts about their career paths and how they landed in the anodizing industry, their approach to sales, experiences at the AAC Anodizing Conference, idiosyncrasies of anodizing racking, which type of racking material works best in various situations, and more.

Tej Patel of Techevon, Mark Spencer of AaCron Anodizing, George Oh of Quaker Houghton, and special guest Pinakin Patel of Techevon talk about the differences between anodizing and painting aluminum and why anodizing is actually a superior coating. The guys discuss why paints are used instead of anodizing and vice versa, the durability of both methods, benefits and drawbacks for anodizing and painting, color fading, filiform corrosion, and much more in this informative episode.