Conference

Finishing

C52: Reduce the Rework: Process Control and Preventive Strategies in Powder Coating

  • Date

  • Time

  • Location

    S115

Presentations

Preventative Maintenance and Troubleshooting for Powder Coaters

1:00 pm – 1:45 pm Basic

A preventive maintenance program is designed to ensure that your equipment is inspected and adjusted on a regular basis to extend the reliable operating life of the equipment. Attendees will learn practical examples of how to prevent unnecessary equipment failures, ensure proper operation, and minimize repair and operating costs.

Built to Last: Controlling Powder Coating Performance Before Parts Leave the Line

1:45 pm – 2:30 pm Basic

Powder coating performance should not be determined at the end of the line, it should built into every stage of the process. From pretreatment through final cure, consistent measurement and process verification separates durable, high-performance finishes from costly rework and scrap. This session examines the inspection tools and industry test standards that help powder coaters prevent defects before they occur. Attendees will gain clear, practical insights into coating thickness control before and after cure, oven temperature profiling, adhesion testing, dew point monitoring, and gloss measurement, all focused on improving consistency, reducing reprocessing, and ensuring every part meets both aesthetic and performance expectations.

About the Speakers

  • Michael Wittenhagen

    Vitracoat, Inc.

    Biography

    Michael A. Wittenhagen is a seasoned quality and technical leader with extensive experience in QA/QC management, technical support, and manufacturing operations across the powder coatings industry. He has led ISO-17025 accredited laboratory implementation, driven measurable improvements in productivity, safety, and customer satisfaction. Michael is recognized for building high-performing teams and delivering operational excellence.

    More Details about Michael

  • Merrick Taraska

    DeFelsko Corporation

    Biography

    Merrick Taraska is a Technical Sales and Support Specialist at the DeFelsko Corporation, a U.S. manufacturer of coating thickness gages and inspection instruments, where he provides technical guidance and after-sales support across industries including commercial painting, quality assurance, and manufacturing. He is the author of “Digital Inspection Tools Transform Powder Coating Quality” in Powder Coated Tough magazine, an authorized speaker and member of the Powder Coating Institute, a member of the Association for Materials Protection and Performance, and a returning presenter at FABTECH. Merrick also conducts training seminars supporting DeFelsko’s global dealer and customer network, helping professionals enhance inspection accuracy and coating quality.

    More Details about Merrick

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