Rubber is a critical material across industries such as automotive, construction, and consumer goods. Yet even in well-managed facilities, production scrap remains a costly challenge. Each batch of wasted rubber drives up material costs, increases disposal needs, and reduces overall efficiency.

Even small percentages of scrap accumulate into significant financial and operational setbacks over time.

This article explains why scrap occurs in rubber manufacturing and how to reduce it, protecting profitability while supporting sustainable operations.

Why Rubber Scrap Happens

Unlike many other materials, rubber exhibits complex behavior under heat, pressure, and molding conditions. That complexity introduces waste at several production stages:

Mold Defects

Incomplete fills, sticking, or tearing during demolding are common causes of rejected parts, wasting both material and production time.

Surface Damage

Contaminated or poorly prepared molds can cause blemishes, air pockets, or rough surfaces, rendering products unsuitable for use.

Excess Material

During mandrel or pan processes, rubber can adhere where it shouldn’t, creating additional clean-up and unnecessary scrap.

Equipment Wear

Sticking and drag increase friction on molds and bladders, accelerating tool wear and downtime while compounding waste issues.

Why Reducing Scrap Matters

Every pound of wasted rubber translates into higher raw material, energy, and labor costs. Beyond budget, scrap directly impacts:

• Operational Efficiency: Rework and clean-up slow production throughput.
• Sustainability: Rubber waste contributes to environmental challenges, hindering ESG progress.
• Quality Consistency: Fewer defects improve reliability and client satisfaction.

Reducing scrap is not only a cost-saving measure, it’s a foundation for consistent quality, sustainability, and long-term competitiveness.

How Advanced Coatings Reduce Scrap

High-performance lubricants and release coatings are proven tools for minimizing rubber waste. By creating a barrier between rubber and molds, mandrels, or bladders, these coatings:

• Prevent sticking, tearing, and surface defects
• Enable faster, cleaner release
• Reduce rework and clean-up
• Extend equipment life by minimizing friction

The result is a higher yield per batch and less material loss.

Whitslik™ Rubber Lubricant

A leading solution is Whitslik™ Rubber Lubricant, engineered specifically to minimize scrap in rubber manufacturing.

• Versatility: Available in solvent- and water-based formulations for different production environments.
• Ease of Use: Ready-to-apply, safe, and environmentally responsible.
• Applications: Suitable for tire molds, mandrel and pan processes, and machine mounting.

Whitslik™ consistently delivers anti-stick performance, ensuring cleaner release and fewer defects.

Benefits on the Production Floor

Consistent Quality

Reliable release reduces blemishes, incomplete fills, and weak spots, cutting reject rates.

Efficiency Gains

Less scrap means reduced downtime, less clean-up, and more uninterrupted production.

Extended Equipment Life

Lower friction slows mold, mandrel, and bladder wear, protecting tools and reducing costs.

Sustainability Alignment

Solvent-free and low-VOC options support eco-friendly manufacturing and reduce waste burden.

Industry Applications

Rubber manufacturing spans diverse products—tires, hoses, seals, and molded goods—each requiring tailored scrap-reduction strategies:

• Mold Release Agents: Ensure smooth release of complex shapes.
• Mandrel & Pan Lubricants: Prevent adhesion during hose and tubing production.
• Inside Tire Lubricants: Improve air bleed and rubber flow, extend bladder life, and enhance uniformity.
• Bead and Mounting Lubricants: Provide proper slip for safe installation and reduced rim damage.

Conclusion: Less Scrap, More Productivity

Scrap in rubber manufacturing is common, but not inevitable. By addressing root causes such as sticking, tearing, poor flow, and contamination, manufacturers can significantly reduce waste.

Proven solutions like Whitslik™ Rubber Lubricant help ensure consistent release, protect equipment, and enhance product quality.

Ready to see how our products can reduce scrap in your process? Explore Whitslik™ and other APV tire and rubber lubricants online or contact us today to discuss your application!

The post How to Minimize Production Scrap in Rubber Manufacturing appeared first on APV.

In manufacturing, operational disruptions can have a significant impact, not only for the manufacturer, but the customers they serve and even further downstream to the customers that they serve. Natural disasters, supply chain volatility, equipment failure, and workforce disruptions can all bring production to a halt if manufacturers are unprepared. A manufacturing contingency plan provides the framework needed to maintain continuity, protect delivery schedules, and uphold quality standards when the unexpected occurs.

For organizations that depend on consistent output and predictable lead times, contingency planning is not optional. It is a core operational discipline. At APV Engineered Coatings, contingency planning is embedded into how we operate, invest, and serve our clients.

Core Components of an Effective Manufacturing Contingency

Plan

Comprehensive contingency planning typically includes:

• Redundant production capabilities to eliminate single points of failure
• Backup utilities, including electrical, water, and communications services
• Secondary manufacturing or storage locations capable of supporting active production
• Emergency response and facility management protocols
• Cross-trained personnel able to adapt quickly during disruptions
• Supplier diversification with qualified fallback partners
• Regulatory and safety controls to maintain compliance under non-standard conditions

While many manufacturers acknowledge these principles, few implement them at a scale that supports true continuity. This is where APV differentiates itself.

How APV Approaches Manufacturing Preparedness

APV Engineered Coatings has built contingency planning into its operational foundation. Our clients rely on us not only for high-performance engineered coatings, but also for dependable production and delivery. Our contingency infrastructure is designed to support that responsibility without compromise.

Capacity Available

APV operates two manufacturing facilities in Akron, Ohio, located on Firestone Parkway and West Emerling Avenue, each facility is equipped with fully operational production equipment. Operating well below production capacity, APV can shift production from one facility to the other if an interruption occurs.

Independent Utility Infrastructure

Each facility has power sourced from a different substation and operates with separate electrical and water systems. This independence reduces the risk of shared utility disruptions impacting both locations simultaneously and supports uninterrupted operations during localized outages.

Emergency-Ready Production Capability

APV has in place emergency response and facility management protocols, including cross- trained personnel to quickly respond and implement the protocols based on the emergency or production needs. The secondary facility functions as a fully operational production site which enables rapid transition and continuity in the event of infrastructure failure, or other localized disruptions. Having multiple sources of various mixing and milling equipment means shorter lead time and rapid response to an emergency.

Operational Focus On Lead Time Reliability

Contingency planning at APV is directly tied to our commitment to lead time integrity. Our systems are structured not simply to recover from disruptions, but to prevent clients from experiencing their effects whenever possible.

A Commitment to Continuity

A manufacturing contingency plan represents more than risk mitigation. It reflects an organization’s commitment to reliability, preparation, and accountability. In an environment where disruptions are unavoidable, manufacturers must choose partners that invest proactively in resilience.

APV Engineered Coatings has built its facilities, systems, and operational culture around continuity. Our dual manufacturing locations, independent utilities, and emergency-ready infrastructure ensure consistent, dependable service regardless of external challenges.

Talk to us about your manufacturing contingency plan today!

The post Manufacturing Contingency Planning: Why It Matters and How APV Sets the Standard appeared first on APV.

As a manufacturing operator or OEM business catering to aerospace needs, you likely face constant pressure to reduce operational costs while maintaining the exacting performance standards that the industry demands.

There are numerous areas to optimize savings, but if you want a simple start that yields big payoffs, you can’t go wrong with cost-saving coatings.

Coatings represent a significant opportunity for cost reduction, particularly when you consider the labor, material waste, and downtime associated with multi-coat systems and frequent reapplication cycles. At APV Engineered Coatings, we’ve developed specialized coating solutions that address these cost drivers without compromising the durability and performance aerospace applications require.

Learn more about our cost-saving solutions and how they can improve margins for your aerospace applications.

Single-Coat Systems Reduce Labor and Material Costs

Whether it’s coating a fuselage or protecting aircraft surfaces and components from temperature spikes, there’s always a need to use multiple coats. Here’s the problem, though:

Multi-coat application processes drive up costs in several ways. Each layer requires surface preparation, application time, curing periods, and quality inspection. Labor hours accumulate quickly when technicians must apply primers, base coats, and topcoats separately.

What if you could reduce the number of coating layers to just one?

Our AEROPRITE™ Aluminum Aircraft Paint eliminates these compounding costs. This single-coat system delivers excellent adhesion on aircraft wheels and brakes without requiring a primer or additional layers. The formulation bonds directly to metal substrates, reducing material consumption and cutting application time significantly.

Fewer coats also mean fewer opportunities for application errors, which translates to less rework and waste.

Faster Turnaround Times Maximize Fleet Availability

The time savings extend beyond the application itself. Single-coat systems allow faster turnaround on maintenance schedules, reducing aircraft downtime. When you’re managing tight maintenance windows, the ability to complete coating work in one pass instead of three creates meaningful operational advantages.

Material Waste Reduction Through Formulation Precision

You need a partner for coating solutions with an in-depth understanding of aerospace needs so that you acquire engineered coatings without the guesswork.

At APV Engineered Coatings, we work directly with aerospace manufacturers to develop formulations tailored to specific applications. Our in-house R&D capabilities and testing laboratory allow us to engineer coatings that meet your exact performance requirements from the start.

This precision reduces material waste and testing costs while delivering the durability and performance these specialized applications require.

Precision Masking Reduces Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul Costs

Engine overhauls and component refurbishment present unique coating challenges. Diffusion coating processes for turbine engines operate at temperatures above 1500°F and protect specific areas from unwanted coating requires maskants that can withstand extreme thermal conditions.

Extreme temperatures necessitate extreme temperature performance, especially in your maskant materials.

Our high-temperature maskant products maintain their integrity throughout these processes. They prevent coating in selected areas during diffusion coating for new and refurbished turbine blades, which eliminates labor costs that are associated with removing unwanted coating or replacing components. Poor masking leads to coating in restricted zones, resulting in additional labor to remove the coating or scrapping expensive turbine blades.

Custom Preforms Solve Difficult Masking Challenges

Some aerospace components feature geometries that make traditional masking methods inefficient or impractical. Turbine blade platforms, imprecise manifolds, and other complex surfaces often require extensive hand masking, which increases labor costs and introduces variability in coverage.

Maskant Custom Preforms address these challenges through precision engineering. We design these preforms based on your specific component geometries and masking requirements. The custom-fitted design reduces application time and ensures consistent coverage across production runs, reducing the skilled labor hours typically spent on hand masking complex geometries.

Long-Term Performance Reduces Maintenance Frequency

The true cost of a coating extends beyond the initial application. Coatings that degrade quickly under operational stress require frequent reapplication, multiplying labor and material costs over the component’s service life.

Our aerospace coatings undergo comprehensive testing to ensure they withstand the environmental stresses aircraft components face. We test for corrosion resistance, thermal stability, abrasion resistance, and chemical exposure to verify long-term performance.

Coatings that maintain their protective properties longer reduce the frequency of maintenance cycles and the associated costs of repeated surface preparation and reapplication.

APV Engineered Coatings: Masking Materials and Custom Coatings That Cut Costs

Cost reduction in aerospace maintenance requires more than simply choosing cheaper materials. It demands engineered solutions that reduce application complexity, prevent costly errors, and deliver durable performance over extended service intervals.

If you’re evaluating masking or coating options for aerospace applications or have a custom project in mind, contact APV Engineered Coatings for a consultation.

We can discuss your specific requirements and provide samples for testing in your application environment.

The post Cost-Saving Solutions for the Aerospace Industry appeared first on APV.

As our world advances, industries face increasing pressure to balance progress with sustainability. The tire retreading sector is no exception. While retreading plays a critical role in reducing waste and conserving resources, many facilities still release hazardous emissions during the process.

Compliance with environmental regulations isn’t just a box to check. It’s a business imperative. Fortunately, solutions exist that make compliance easier and more effective than ever.

Why Retreading Matters

Tire retreading supports a greener, circular economy by extending the life of tire casings and reducing the need for new raw materials. Instead of discarding worn tires, the existing carcass is reused and fitted with new tread, conserving rubber, steel, and petroleum-based materials. It’s a smart, sustainable choice for commercial fleets and a growing priority across the transportation industry.

Here’s how retreaded tires contribute to environmental gains:

• Oil Savings: Save 15 gallons of oil per tire
• Material Reduction: Use 90 pounds less raw material per tire
• Lower Emissions: Reduce CO₂ emissions by 24%
• Water and Air Impact: Use 19% less water and cut air pollution by 21%
• Landfill Diversion: Keep 1.4 billion pounds of waste out of landfills annually

While the environmental benefits are clear, there’s still work to do at the facility level, especially when it comes to emissions.

Understanding Retread Facility Emissions

Retread facilities use adhesives and solvents during tire building and curing. These processes can release hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) such as hexane and toluene. These chemicals support proper bonding, but they also pose risks to human health and the environment.

Common emission sources in a retread facility include:

• Buffing the carcass
• Cement and adhesive application
• Extruding/tread building
• Curing/vulcanization

Even though retreading uses fewer raw materials than new tire manufacturing, the curing process and its emissions are under the same regulatory scrutiny.

The Regulations That Matter

The Clean Air Act (CAA) gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) authority to regulate air pollutants and enforce emissions standards across U.S. industries. For retreaders, this means following multiple layers of regulation:

• National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS): Limits for pollutants like particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide that apply to all operations
• New Source Performance Standards (NSPS): Emissions limits for new or modified equipment based on current pollution control technologies
• National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP): Strict standards targeting HAPs, like those emitted in traditional retreading processes

To stay compliant and avoid costly penalties, retread facilities must adopt safe formulations, implement emissions control technologies, and follow proper reporting procedures.

A Proven Path to Compliance: ZEVOC^® Cement

ZEVOC^® is the first patented water-based cement for cured rubber substrates.

Many retreaders have already taken steps to reduce or eliminate HAP emissions, and the results are clear. According to EPA-reviewed data, some facilities have lowered emissions from over 8 tons per year to virtually zero.

ZEVOC^® Cement from APV Engineered Coatings makes that possible.

ZEVOC^® is the first patented water-based cement for cured rubber. It’s a drop-in replacement for solvent-based adhesives that delivers high performance without the hazardous emissions.

Why ZEVOC^® Works:

• Zero Emissions: Contains no VOCs or HAPs and complies with all local, state, and federal emissions regulations
• Insurance Savings: Nonflammable, which may reduce facility risk and insurance costs
• Simplified Storage: Requires no special storage, sprinkler systems, or lockout equipment
• Easy Application: Compatible with conventional spray equipment already in use
• Reliable Performance: Delivers adhesion strength equal to or better than solvent-based cements

ZEVOC^® is trusted by top-tier manufacturers and backed by APV’s technical experts. We provide application guidance, cleanup recommendations, and ongoing support to help your facility stay compliant without compromising efficiency or bond strength.

The Bottom Line

Tire retreading is an essential part of sustainable transportation, but only when emissions are properly managed. The Clean Air Act and EPA regulations are in place to protect public health and promote safer industrial practices. With solutions like ZEVOC® Cement, you don’t have to choose between compliance and performance.

Ready to reduce emissions and future-proof your facility?

Contact APV Engineered Coatings today to see how ZEVOC^® can support your sustainability goals.

The post Complying With Emissions Regulations in Retread Facilities appeared first on APV.

Thermal instability remains one of the most serious risks in lithium-ion battery design. As batteries become more powerful and compact, internal temperatures rise faster, and the margin for error gets smaller.

In many systems, a small increase in heat can trigger a chain reaction. Pressure builds, materials break down, and flammable gases form. If unchecked, this leads to thermal runaway and the risk of fire or explosion.

The risks aren’t just a concern for large-scale storage or electric vehicles; they apply equally to consumer electronics, industrial systems, and defense applications.

To reduce that risk, engineers are turning to the materials inside the battery itself. More specifically, they’re turning to binders and coatings that manage heat, support structural integrity, and slow the progression of failure under thermal stress.

Learn more about how these coating materials enhance thermal stability in lithium batteries.

The Role of Coatings in Battery Safety and Stability

Let’s start with the anatomy of a typical lithium-ion battery.

What’s in a Lithium-Ion Battery and Why It Can Overheat

Each lithium-ion battery is composed of layered materials: cathodes, anodes, separators, and electrolytes. These components need to function in close proximity without degrading under pressure, vibration, or elevated temperatures.

The problem is that without a material that holds these components together, the battery as a whole can overheat. To prevent the risks of heat damage and instability, engineers and OEMs are now resorting to engineered binders and coatings.

The Solution: Engineered Coating Materials and Binders

Binders and coatings protect internal battery components from heat stress, helping maintain structural alignment and chemical balance during repeated use. These materials act as a protective layer that slows the onset of heat-related breakdown and helps prevent the escalation into thermal runaway.

How APV Coating Materials Can Help You Achieve Better Lithium-Ion Battery Stability

We offer a specialized product line of binders and coatings designed to improve thermal performance across the battery system. Because of how they minimize the risks of overheating, these materials contribute to longer battery life, safer operation, and better performance in demanding environments.

Here are some of the ways our coatings are changing the game for battery engineers and manufacturers everywhere.

Increased Thermal Resistance at the Cell Level

APV’s materials preserve component integrity even at elevated temperatures. This reduces deformation in critical areas such as electrode interfaces, making the battery more resilient under fast charging and high-current loads.

Delayed Onset of Thermal Runaway

By increasing the heat tolerance of the battery’s internal layers, these coatings extend the time before thermal events escalate. The result is a safer system because there’s more time to react and mitigate ignition.

Stronger Mechanical Stability Under Stress

Thermal cycling can lead to cracking or separation of internal layers. APV’s binders help components flex without failure, maintaining conductivity and structural cohesion during operation.

Space-Efficient Protection for Compact Designs

Modern battery packs are compact, with little room for passive cooling. These coatings provide high-performance thermal protection without increasing volume or weight.

Seamless Integration into Production Lines

Manufacturers don’t need to redesign their processes to implement APV coatings. These materials are compatible with existing coating and drying systems, reducing barriers to adoption.

Precision Processing for Consistent Quality

Beyond performance, the consistency and purity of binder and coating materials are critical to battery safety and efficiency. APV employs advanced processing techniques to ensure every batch meets the highest standards for uniformity and cleanliness.

Our production methods combine high- and low-shear mixing technologies to achieve a precisely controlled slurry or binder formulation. State-of-the-art filtration systems remove particulates and contaminants, while strict moisture controls prevent degradation of sensitive battery components. The result is a binder with uniform particle size distribution, optimized for smooth application, predictable performance, and extended battery lifespan.

Support for Regulatory and Environmental Goals

With low VOC content and minimal odor during application, these coatings contribute to safer workplace conditions and help organizations comply with tightening environmental standards.

Industry Applications: Where the Technology Performs

APV’s thermal-stable coatings are already in use across several high-risk, high-value sectors.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Automotive batteries must remain safe under repeated fast charging, outdoor temperature swings, and crash conditions. APV coatings support safety goals by reinforcing thermal and structural stability at the cell level.

Consumer Electronics

High-capacity lithium-ion cells in tablets and phones generate localized heat. These coatings help protect thin battery layers, improving lifespan and reducing the likelihood of expansion or fire.

Stationary Energy Storage Systems

Grid-connected batteries operate under long-duration loads with limited passive cooling. APV’s coatings enhance reliability and reduce the risk of thermal events in modular storage units.

Aerospace and Defense

Mission-critical battery systems demand materials that perform in extreme temperatures and harsh environments. APV’s technology helps meet those demands while preserving weight and volume efficiency.

Stable Batteries Start With Safer Materials

As lithium-ion batteries become more powerful, managing thermal stability and structural integrity becomes more critical. Heat generation, mechanical stress, and the risk of structural failure are common challenges that can be effectively mitigated with the right engineered coatings and binder systems.

APV provides expert technical and production support for lithium-ion battery processing, offering custom blending of binder solutions tailored to your current needs and future developments.

With emerging alternatives and evolving performance demands, the future of binder technology is rapidly changing. APV is ready to collaborate with you and develop forward-thinking, application-specific solutions to help you achieve your goals in performance, safety, and sustainability.

Interested in coating materials that can improve your system? Reach out for a free sample.

The post Enhancing Thermal Stability of Lithium-Ion Batteries appeared first on APV.

At APV Engineered Coatings, we’re committed to ensuring that every custom coating formulation exceeds industry standards. Our comprehensive in-house testing procedures, conducted at our state-of-the-art lab in Akron, Ohio, help us deliver coatings that stand up to a wide range of environmental challenges, from salt spray to UV exposure and extreme temperatures.

Why Testing Matters

From the initial formulation to the final product delivery, our team tests coatings at every stage of development. This proactive approach helps us spot potential issues early, refine formulations with precision, and ensure consistent, high-quality results before your coating leaves our facility.

Our Testing Capabilities

Corrosion Resistance: Salt Spray Testing (ASTM B117-19)

We simulate harsh marine and road salt conditions to ensure our coatings protect against corrosion, a critical factor for metal applications.

UV & Weather Resistance (ASTM G154-23, ASTM G155-21)

To assess how coatings hold up under intense sunlight, we subject them to concentrated UV exposure, predicting long-term color and gloss stability for outdoor use.

Physical Performance: Hardness & Flexibility (ASTM D3363-22, ISO 5402-1:2022, ASTM D2097-03(2023))

Our hardness tests ensure that coatings resist scratches and indentations, while flexibility testing evaluates their response to bending or flexing—critical for non-rigid materials like vinyl or fabrics.

Abrasion & Impact Resistance (ASTM D4966-22, ASTM D4060-19, ASTM D2794-93(2019))

We measure how coatings endure surface abrasion and sudden impacts—important for industrial settings with frequent equipment interaction.

Environmental Durability

• Water & Humidity Exposure: We test coatings in high-moisture environments and submerged in water to simulate real-world conditions.
• Cold Resistance: This test ensures coatings maintain their integrity in cold applications, from freezing temperatures to outdoor use.

Thermal Shock Testing (ASTM D6944-15 (2020))

Coatings are exposed to extreme temperature shifts to test their ability to maintain adhesion and structural integrity despite expansion and contraction.

Chemical & Solvent Resistance

• Acid & Solvent Exposure: Coatings undergo testing for resistance to acids and industrial chemicals, including cleaning agents and solvents.
• Petroleum & Automotive Fluids: We test coatings for resistance to gasoline, hot oil, and antifreeze—critical for automotive and machinery applications.

Specialized Testing

• Mold & Mildew Resistance: For outdoor and environmental settings, we test coatings for resistance to microbial growth.
• Custom Testing: We offer tailored tests to simulate your specific operating conditions, whether it’s exposure to unique chemicals or extreme physical challenges.

In-House Testing for Faster Results

Unlike many manufacturers who outsource testing, we keep all procedures in-house for quicker turnaround times and direct insights into coating performance. This approach ensures we meet your custom needs without delay, providing reliable results and faster response times.

Contact Us for Custom Coatings

Every APV coating is backed by extensive testing to ensure reliable performance in even the most demanding applications. Need a custom-engineered coating? Talk to us today to learn how we can meet your specific requirements.

The post In-House Testing Procedures to Meet Industry Standards appeared first on APV.

Many people desire an oceanfront property for the breathtaking views, serene atmosphere, and direct access to nature. Whether as a primary residence, a vacation home, or an investment property, these structures provide unique and luxurious experiences. Unfortunately, the same qualities that make them desirable can cause their eventual decline.

One of the most common concerns for coastal property owners is the degradation of exteriors.
Environmental factors will impact the exterior of a building requiring regular repairs and maintenance to maintain visual appeal and structural integrity. Understanding what impacts your exterior coatings and recognizing products and solutions that can extend the life of those coatings can protect your investment and have a positive impact on your building.

The Challenges of Oceanfront Living

Coastal living means contending with environmental conditions and elements that accelerate wear and tear on building exteriors. Below, we outline the main culprits responsible for the fading and degradation of oceanfront façades.

High UV Rays

One of the most damaging factors to exterior surfaces is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Since coastal regions experience high levels of sunlight, UV rays break down paint pigments over time, making vibrant exteriors appear dull and lifeless. Excessive sun exposure can also deteriorate wood, plastic, and even some metals.

High Humidity

Oceanfront properties are surrounded by moisture-laden air, making high humidity unavoidable. When humidity penetrates building materials, it can result in a host of problems, including mold and mildew growth, wood rot, and the breakdown of adhesives used in exterior finishes. This excess moisture not only affects the building’s appearance but can also lead to long-term structural damage if not properly managed.

Salt Spray

Salt spray is another major contributor to the decline of oceanfront properties. Salt particles carried by coastal winds settle on exterior surfaces, accelerating corrosion. Salt damage not only affects stucco and concrete exteriors, but it can also corrode the metal structural reinforcement components of these exteriors. Other metal components, such as railings, window frames, and door handles, are particularly vulnerable to rusting. Additionally, salt residue can accumulate on painted surfaces, breaking down coatings more quickly than they would in non-coastal environments.

Windborne Sand

Strong coastal winds carry fine sand particles that act as abrasives when they come into contact with building surfaces. This constant exposure to sand can wear down protective coatings, strip paint, and create a rough, weathered look. Wind-driven sand can also infiltrate small openings, causing damage to window seals, door hinges, and other exterior elements.

The Solutions

Protecting an oceanfront property requires a proactive approach. By selecting the right materials and coatings and implementing the best practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your oceanfront façades while maintaining their beauty.

Use Weatherproof Paints and Finishes

If you are constructing a coastal property or undergoing exterior renovations, choose the right high-performance paints and finishes. Standard exterior paints may initially deliver, but they will inevitably fail to withstand the harsh coastal conditions.

KAPGUARD promises long-term protection through advanced architectural coatings formulated with Kynar® PVDF resin. Applied at the OEM, this tough thermoplastic polymer resin provides superior resistance to UV exposure, chemical degradation and extreme weather conditions.

Unlike traditional paints, KAPGUARD retains its bold and rich colors for an extended period. Its durability ensures that you do not need frequent repaints, reducing upkeep costs and preserving the aesthetic appeal of your structure.

Apply High-Quality Exterior Coatings

Whether your project is new construction or restoration of an existing building, façade protection is crucial for preserving the integrity and aesthetic of a building, especially when signs like fading, chipping, or cracking appear. Coastal properties face the harsh challenges of UV rays, humidity, windborne sand and salt, which can accelerate the degradation of the exterior coating.

APV’s NeverFade® Exterior Paints offer an industry-leading solution for revitalizing worn-out oceanfront façades. These field-applied water-based coatings incorporate Kynar Aquatec® PVDF resin, and are designed to extend the life of building exteriors for 15+ years.

Offering custom color matching to order, NeverFade Exterior Paints have low VOC emissions with minimal odor, making them environmentally friendly and ideal for occupied buildings. The formulation also resists dirt pickup, mold and algae growth.

Treat Windows and Door Substrates

APV’s BLOCKSEAL® Liquid Flashing is a moisture barrier that bonds to the substrate preventing water from penetrating door and window openings. This high-resin formula is AAMA 714-22 certified and contains low VOC in a fast-drying acrylic adhesive that works for a variety of substrates, including:

• Weathered wood
• Shakes
• Plywood
• Clapboard
• Primed metal
• Galvanized metal
• Urethane
• Polyester
• Adobe
• Brick
• Stucco
• Masonry
• Slate
• Slab

In Summary

Coastal property owners face unique issues like UV exposure, humidity, salt spray, and windborne sand, which can all lead to quicker deterioration of the exterior surfaces of homes and buildings. To protect and preserve property value, it’s essential to invest in quality paints and coatings that are specifically designed for such conditions.

APV Engineered Coatings custom formulates and manufactures industrial coatings and advanced chemical products for a wide array of industries. We are a partner for some of the world’s top-producing manufacturers due to our expertise and product quality, contact us to discuss your oceanfront coating needs.

The post How To Protect Oceanfront Properties From Fading and Degradation appeared first on APV.

The paints and coatings industry is crucial in countless sectors, providing protective and aesthetic finishes to various surfaces. Unfortunately, it is hard to ignore its environmental impact, with chemicals, solvents, and waste products contributing to air pollution, water contamination, and an overall strain on natural resources. As the demand for coatings rises, the footprint left behind has become a growing concern.

People have been compromising the planet for decades to fulfill various industrial requirements, but we have also reached a stage of modernity where we cannot ignore the need for paints and coatings.

At APV Engineered Coatings, we’re passionate about sustainable manufacturing. Keep reading to see how we’re doing our part!

Water-Based, Low-VOC Products

APV developed Zevoc®, a groundbreaking, water-based, and VOC-free cement that effectively bonds tire components. This product is an alternative to solvent-based cement, which can release harmful levels of VOCs. Moreover, we offer a range of lacquers specifically designed for industrial fabrics that comply with California’s stringent Prop 65 regulations and feature water-borne, low-VOC, and C-0 chemistries.

Our equal commitment to the environment and coating technologies extends to our flagship products like NeverFade® and KAPGUARD®. These advanced coatings utilize fluoropolymer resins without PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). We are proud to have them as some of the most sustainable architectural coatings available today.

Sustainable Manufacturing Processes

Creating sustainable products is one side of the coin; the other side is producing them sustainably. Unlike other manufacturers, APV does not deliver standard coatings. Our research and development team develops advanced solutions tailored to the specific needs of industries without taking too much from the environment.

From lowering energy consumption to minimizing waste, we lower our carbon footprint while maintaining the high standards of quality that our customers rely on. We understand that the pursuit of innovation goes hand-in-hand with responsibility, so we take the lead in sustainable manufacturing products for your operations and our surroundings.

Partnerships With Other Eco-Friendly Companies

APV takes pride in working alongside companies dedicated to improving product quality and striving to safeguard the world as we are. Every day, we collaborate with our partners to ensure that our coatings perform better than expected and do their part in building a greener future. Our partnerships allow us to learn from others and share our knowledge. The more available and accessible environmentally friendly coating solutions are, the more we can keep the industry and the planet thriving.

Responsible Sourcing

Sustainable manufacturing also means sourcing materials responsibly. One of APV’s key initiatives is to restrict the purchase of raw materials that contain conflict minerals, such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, or gold, which may directly or indirectly finance or help armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and its neighboring countries.

APV conducts an annual, thorough country of origin inquiry and performs due diligence, as required by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Specifically, we assess whether any conflict minerals are a “must” for the functionality or production of our products. Furthermore, we order all suppliers to adhere to applicable laws and regulations. Suppliers must participate in our yearly inquiry and share the necessary information to demonstrate compliance with our standards.

By upholding responsible sourcing of our entire supply chain, we help foster ethical and sustainable business practices at every level of our operations. We protect the Earth and its people.

Continuous Education

Sustainability is not a set of actions or policies but a mindset and a culture that warrants ongoing learning, adaptation, and improvement. As such, APV implements continuous education across all levels of the company, from our leadership team to our researchers, engineers, production staff, and even our suppliers.

New regulations, technologies, and practices are emerging regularly, and we stay ahead of these developments by investing in educating our people. Since our founding in 1878, we have progressed, but stopping where we are is not an option. We train in the technical aspects of coating technologies, environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and sustainability’s broader social and economic implications.

Ultimately, APV views continuous education as a critical component of our long-term success and our ability to cater to people’s and nature’s evolving demands. We improve and inspire, making sustainable manufacturing everyone’s job.

Paint and Coat the World Responsibly with APV Engineered Coatings

The paints and coatings industry supports the aerospace, automotive, construction, textiles, tire and rubber, industrial, and other sectors. Whether high-performance coatings for commercial buildings, protective finishes for cars, or durable solutions for industrial fabrics, we provide the products and services that guarantee longevity and functionality. Now, we can do all these things without harming the earth.

At APV Engineered Coatings, we formulate industrial coatings and advanced chemical products with sustainable manufacturing at the core. Through innovative research, responsible sourcing, and eco-friendly production processes, we make the paints and coatings industry reliable in all respects.

Explore our products and capabilities, and contact us to learn more! Let us work together toward a world where performance and environmental responsibility are not incompatible.

The post Sustainable Practices in Coating Manufacturing appeared first on APV.

The aerospace industry demands precision, reliability, and cutting-edge technology to ensure aircraft components perform optimally under extreme conditions. From enduring high temperatures to resisting corrosion, the materials and coatings used must meet stringent requirements. APV Engineered Coatings has risen to the challenge, offering innovative solutions tailored for aerospace applications.

Among our groundbreaking products are AEROPRITE™ aluminum aircraft paint, maskant custom preforms, and high-temperature maskant materials. Each of these products plays a critical role in enhancing the performance and longevity of aerospace components. Keep reading to learn more about their applications.

AEROPRITE™: A Game-Changer for Aircraft Wheels and Brakes

AEROPRITE™ was developed as a single-coat application alternative to traditional multi-coat systems. Specifically designed for use on aircraft wheels and brakes, this advanced coating also proves effective on other aluminum components.

Use Cases in Aerospace

The superior performance of AEROPRITE™ makes it an invaluable asset for aerospace manufacturers and maintenance operations:

• Aircraft Wheels: These components endure extreme stress during takeoffs and landings. AEROPRITE™’s protective coating helps extend the life of wheels by preventing corrosion and wear.
• Brake Systems: In addition to mechanical stress, brakes are exposed to intense heat and potential chemical exposure. AEROPRITE™’s high-performance properties ensure reliable protection.
• Aluminum Structural Components: The single-coat application streamlines the production process while maintaining adherence to industry regulations.

Advantages for the Aerospace Industry

Here are a few key advantages offered by the AEROPRITE™.

• Cost Savings: The single-coat system reduces material and labor costs compared to multi-coat alternatives, offering significant savings for aerospace manufacturers and maintenance teams.
• Exceptional Adhesion: AEROPRITE™ adheres seamlessly to aluminum surfaces, ensuring a durable and long-lasting protective layer.
• Quick Drying Time: The product’s air-dry formula allows for faster application and processing, minimizing downtime during manufacturing or maintenance.
• Corrosion Resistance: By preventing oxidation and corrosion, AEROPRITE™ ensures the integrity of critical components exposed to harsh environments.

Maskant Custom Preforms: Simplifying Precision Masking

Masking complex aerospace components for coating processes often presents a significant challenge. APV’s maskant custom preforms are engineered to address this issue, providing a tailored solution for areas that are difficult to mask. These preforms are created based on specific customer requirements, ensuring a perfect fit for each application.

Use Cases in Aerospace

• Turbine Blades: Turbine blades must maintain specific zones free of coatings to ensure optimal performance. Custom preforms simplify this process by providing an exact fit for each blade platform.
• Manifolds: For manifolds with irregular shapes, preforms create a reliable masking solution that prevents contamination during coating.
• Maintenance and Repairs: During aircraft refurbishments, maskant custom preforms streamline masking for components that require partial recoating.

Benefits for the Aerospace Industry

Our custom preforms provide the following advantages across various applications.

• Custom Fit: We designed each preform to meet precise specifications, ensuring maximum coverage and effectiveness.
• Leak Prevention: By creating a tight seal, our Maskant Custom Preforms prevent coating gases from escaping onto areas that should remain uncoated.
• Versatility: Our preforms are ideal for use in masking intricate areas such as turbine blade platforms and imprecise manifolds.

High-Temperature Maskant Materials: Protecting Components Under Extreme Conditions

The aerospace industry frequently deals with components subjected to extreme temperatures, especially during processes like diffusion coating and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). APV’s high-temperature maskant materials provide a robust solution, protecting specific areas of aerospace components from unwanted coatings or damage during high-temperature processing.

Use Cases in Aerospace

• Turbine Components: Turbine blades, vanes, and other hot section parts benefit from the precise masking provided by these materials, enabling effective diffusion coatings.
• Engine Parts: Nickel- and iron-based alloys used in engine components are protected during coating processes. The added protection allows them to maintain their structural integrity and performance.
• Thermal Processing: During high-temperature treatments, these maskant materials prevent undesired coating buildup, preserving critical design specifications.

Advantages for the Aerospace Industry

Here are a few benefits of our dry powder maskants.

• Temperature Resistance: These materials are designed to withstand the intense heat of processes reaching over 2,000°F.
• Ease of Removal: Post-process, the maskant materials can be removed without requiring abrasive techniques, preserving the integrity of the component.
• Precision: High-temperature maskant materials create sharp demarcations between coated and uncoated areas, ensuring only the desired surfaces receive treatment.

Elevating Aerospace Standards With APV Engineered Coatings

APV Engineered Coatings’ innovative products demonstrate the commitment to meeting the unique challenges of the aerospace industry. From the cost-saving efficiency of AEROPRITE™ to the precision of Maskant Custom Preforms and the high-performance reliability of High-temperature maskant materials, our solutions enhance the durability, safety, and performance of critical aerospace components.

As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, our engineered coatings and masking systems will remain at the forefront, helping manufacturers and maintenance teams achieve greater efficiency and reliability.

Contact Us for More Information

To learn more about these advanced products or to explore how APV can support your aerospace operations, get in touch with our expert team today.

The post Exploring Aerospace Industry Product Applications appeared first on APV.

Outsourcing manufacturing for materials like engineered coatings can be a game-changer for businesses looking to scale efficiently without significant capital investment. There are two popular options today: contract manufacturing and toll manufacturing. These solutions enable companies to produce goods without building in-house production capabilities, saving time and resources.

Contract/toll manufacturing helps businesses focus on core competencies like marketing, R&D, and distribution while leveraging the expertise of a third-party manufacturer. Understanding the differences between the two is crucial for making the right choice to maximize profits, reduce costs, and optimize production. Below, APV dives into the specifics and explores the benefits of each model.

What Is Contract Manufacturing?

Contract manufacturing involves hiring a third-party manufacturer to produce finished products or components based on your specifications. In this arrangement, the contract manufacturer provides raw materials, handles the entire production process, and delivers the final product.

Pros

• Cost savings: Businesses can reduce overhead by outsourcing production instead of investing in expensive equipment and facilities.
• Expertise: Contract manufacturers often have specialized knowledge in producing certain products, leading to higher quality and improved efficiency.
• Focus: You can focus on your core competencies while the manufacturer handles production.
• Speed to Market: Quicker launch times can lead to market advantages and better alignment with consumer demand.
• Minimized Risk: Allows for industry and competitive analysis before making a capital investment.

Cons

• Loss of control: Since the manufacturer oversees production, you may have limited influence over processes and quality standards. Make sure you have regular reviews and quality checks.
• Intellectual property risks: Sharing proprietary information with a third party could lead to potential IP infringement if not protected by a solid contract.
• Lead times: Be sure to confirm the manufacturer’s schedule and that production aligns with your expectations.

To learn more about contract manufacturing for the engineered coatings industry, check out our page.

What Is Toll Manufacturing?

Toll manufacturing is a similar process, but in this model, the client provides the raw materials, and the manufacturer processes or transforms them into a finished product. The toll manufacturer only handles the processing aspect, while the client retains control over sourcing materials.

Pros

• Control over materials: Since you provide the raw materials, you have complete control over their quality, ensuring consistency in the final product.
• Cost transparency: You can better track costs related to materials, making it easier to manage budgets. There’s also added cost efficiency since you don’t have to invest in new equipment for production.
• Flexibility: Toll manufacturing offers the flexibility to change material suppliers without disrupting the production process.
• Scalability: If the demand for your product increases, you can easily work with other companies to satisfy the demand.

Cons

• Responsibility for materials: The client bears the responsibility of sourcing and delivering the materials on time. Clear communication is necessary to avoid production delays if there are supply chain issues.
• Limited expertise: Toll manufacturers typically specialize in processing, so they may not offer the same level of production expertise as contract manufacturers.
• Coordination challenges: The division of responsibilities between the client and manufacturer requires close coordination, which can complicate communication and timelines.

Contract/Toll Manufacturing: Which Is Best for My Requirements?

The choice between contract and toll manufacturing depends on your business’s specific needs. If you prefer to offload the entire production process and want to leverage a manufacturer’s expertise, contract manufacturing may be the best fit. It provides a hands-off approach, ideal for businesses that don’t want to manage sourcing materials.

If maintaining control over materials is a priority, and you already have reliable suppliers, toll manufacturing could be more suitable. This model offers cost transparency and flexibility while allowing you to focus on ensuring the quality of materials.

Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as budget, production expertise, material sourcing, and control over the manufacturing process.

Start a Custom Project

APV is an industry leader in engineered coatings, offering capabilities like contract manufacturing. If you’re ready to take your business to the next level and gain high-quality coatings manufactured by a team of experts, we’re the company to trust. Let us help you optimize production, reduce costs, and boost your bottom line. Start a custom project with us today!

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