Mar 28

BWA Members Get the Goods on Water-Based Finishes.

Finishing is a moving target for all wood product manufacturers that rely on a consistent quality finish.
Read on to learn how the BWA creates value utilizing the supply chain expertise!

Due to the new changes to technology of lacquers and finishes and the equipment to apply them, BWA requested an in-depth informative session to learn the following with respect to water-based finishes. BWA Associate Members Exel Canada, Katilac Coatings, and Performance Abrasives provided a very informative and interactive forum:

  • Equipment: How do I convert my existing equipment to water based material? How do I maintain it to maximize it’s efficiency? How can I maximize my current equipment investment with the changing technology of finishes? What are some of the latest technologies in finishing equipment we need to be ware of and what is now in the marketplace? What else do you need to learn in this area? Bring your company’s challenges, questions, and opportunities to share in this discussion.
  • Finishing Material What are the current advantages and limitations of water based material? Where has the technology come to today? Where is water-based least effective in its application? What advantages/disadvantages remain with laquer based finishes? Why is it more expensive? What Ministry of Environment requirements apply to the use of laquer materials vs water-based? What new technologies and science exist with both of these finishes? What about interior/exterior applications? What makes one finish different and better than another? What challenges has your company had with finishing and what do you want to learn from this discussion?

A facilitated Q&A ensued for each theme, and mixed in with some good networking time, provided BWA members and guests with a value-added event! See Pictures below, and mark down June 19, 2014 for the next Bluewater Wood Alliance Quarterly Networking Event!

Performance Abrasives provided a very informative presentation.

Richard Johnson of Katilac Coatings provided a very informative perspective on the chemistry of water-based coatings.