CIC Panel Lists Vehicle Complexity, Training as Top Challenges
Vehicle complexity and training were the two main challenges members of a panel discussion held at the Collision Industry Conference last week in Palm Springs, Calif., said lie ahead for the collision repair industry. Members of the panel included: Guy Bargnes of Bargnes Associates; Randy Hanson, auto director for Allstate; John Edelen, president and CEO
Northeast States Edge Closer to Adopting Waterborne Paint Regulations
The Ozone Transport Commission (OTC) has officially adopted a resolution calling on its member states to adopt waterborne paint regulations. The model regulations place limits for volatile organic compounds (VOC) that would require collision repair facilities to convert to waterborne basecoat refinish systems by Jan. 1, 2012. The model rule also would require the use
Independent PBE Distributors Form Alliance
A new PBE distributor organization, Refinish Distributors Alliance (RDA), has formed to better serve its collision repair customers. RDA consists of 10 regional PBE distributors with combined sales of $350 million. “The changing dynamics in the collision industry are driving a need for more collaboration between collision centers, manufacturers of refinish materials and repair equipment,
Breathe Easy
Comply with the OSHA requirement for grade “D” breathable air by using a Quality Air Breathing System – Model P-20, Personal Air Breathing Unit. When used properly, it will work with the existing filtered compressed air supply. A 20 scfm system, it can be used with full hoods and equipped with vortex cooling tubes. It
Superheating Technology
The DFM800R air make-up unit provides the airflow and temperature rise recommended by paint manufacturers for the curing of waterborne and solvent-based coatings. “Superheating” cure technology recirculates air within the unit, allowing air to pass by the burner numerous times before it enters the booth for faster dry times, lower operating costs and a better
Space-Saving Compressor
The new SX AirCenter units include a rotary screw compressor, dryer and tank in one space-saving package. Available in 3 to 7.5 hp, they provide pressures from 125 to 217 and capacities to 28.3 cfm. Plus, they’re easy to install – just connect the power and air line and you’re running. These units also include
Equipment Needed for Waterborne Conversion
Transitioning to waterborne basecoats will require obtaining new equipment and retrofitting some existing equipment. Are you prepared? Part 2 of a three-part series on waterborne paint.
No-Noise Compressors
The QT-Xtreme and PLT-Xtreme are the industry’s only continuous-duty reciprocating compressors with a canopy for delivering reliable shop air without all the noise. They allow for normal conversation while running and boast sound levels as low as 64 db(A) on a 5-hp model and 65 db(A) on a 7.5-hp unit..
ASA Announces Renewing and New Associate Members
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) announced many associate members have renewed their memberships and several new companies have joined ASA as associate members. Associate members renewing their ASA membership during the third quarter of 2008 include: 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division, Access Fleet, Airtex Products, American Impact Media Corp., Atlas Copco Compressors Inc., Auto Profit Masters,
Picking a PBE Jobber
Some body shops select their PBE jobbers based on price alone, but that can cost them much more than they save in the long run. They should also consider service and the jobber’s commitment to forming a profitable partnership.