Understanding the Five Key Variables That Affect Film Thickness

What happens when coating expertise meets finishing technology? Better processes, more consistent finishes, and opportunities to move production faster.In this episode of The Finishing Touch, Bret Johnson welcomes Stefan De Santis of Envirolak Wood Coatings to the Superfici America Finishing Lab for a conversation about how collaboration between coating companies and equipment manufacturers benefits finishers.They explore the evolution of water-based wood coatings, common application mistakes, and the role of automated spraying and drying equipment in improving production efficiency. Drawing on hands-on lab testing, they discuss how shared knowledge becomes practical guidance that shops can use on the production floor.You’ll hear about:• Adjusting application techniques when switching from solvent-based to water-based coatings• Using lab testing to develop repeatable finishing procedures• Reducing drying bottlenecks and freeing up shop space• Addressing common concerns about finishing automation• Building confidence through training and industry collaborationWhether you finish cabinets, furniture, or architectural millwork, this episode offers insight into making your coatings, equipment, and processes work better together.Explore finishing solutions and connect with Superfici America:https://www.superficiamerica.comLearn more about Envirolak Wood Coatings:https://envirolak.comFollow The Finishing Touch for more conversations about coatings, automation, and practical ways to improve your finishing process.Helping You Finish Better.

What do you do when your machine goes down?In this episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, Bret Johnson sits down with Superfici America’s in-house customer support technician, Jacob Sloop, to talk about real-world troubleshooting, machine maintenance, and the value of on-demand support.Jacob shares what it’s like being the first call when something goes wrong, plus the most common issues he sees and how operators can prevent them before they turn into costly downtime.You’ll learn:When to troubleshoot yourself vs. when to call for helpThe most common (and preventable) machine issuesWhy cleanliness and routine maintenance matter more than you thinkHow on-demand support, remote access, and training resources keep production movingWhat information helps technicians solve problems fasterWhether you’re an experienced operator or new to automated finishing, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep your equipment running efficiently and avoid unnecessary headaches.🎧 Tune in and learn how to fix problems faster and keep your line moving.👉 Need support or troubleshooting help? Visit SuperficiAmerica.com to connect with our team and access resources.

In this episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, host Bret Johnson from Superfici America sits down with Jose Graibe of IMECA Lumber & Hardware and Matt Lowe of Superfici America for a conversation filmed on location in Doral, Florida.Together, they explore how the partnership between Superfici America and IMECA is helping cabinet shops, millwork manufacturers, and finishing professionals overcome common production challenges and prepare for the future of automated finishing.From labor shortages and production bottlenecks to the growing demand for consistent, high-quality finishes, this episode dives into how the right combination of technology, coatings knowledge, distribution support, and industry relationships can help shops reach their long-term goals.You’ll also hear insights on how automation is becoming more accessible for shops of all sizes, why strong distributor partnerships matter, and how companies like IMECA are helping customers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving woodworking and finishing industry.In this episode, we discuss:• The growing partnership between Superfici America and IMECA• Why automation is becoming essential in modern finishing operations• Common bottlenecks in sanding, application, and drying processes• How distributors help customers navigate finishing technology• Why smaller shops are beginning to adopt automation• The importance of service, support, and long-term industry partnershipsWhether you’re a cabinet shop owner, millwork manufacturer, finishing operator, or coatings professional, this episode offers practical insights into the future of finishing and how your business can grow with the right partners.To learn more about Superfici America and connect with a local representative, visit:https://www.superficiamerica.com/salesteamSubscribe to the Finishing Touch Podcast for more conversations with experts across the automated finishing and woodworking industries.

Keeping your automated finishing machine running starts with having the right parts, the right plan, and the right people. In this episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, host Bret Johnson sits down with Tommy Harris, Parts & Customer Service Manager at Superfici America, to break down everything operators and maintenance teams need to know about machine maintenance, spare parts inventory, and minimizing costly downtime.Tommy covers which critical components every finishing operation should stock on-site, why OEM parts always outperform aftermarket alternatives, and how to build a preventive maintenance schedule tailored to your machine's actual runtime. He also shares real-world examples of what happens when the wrong filters, bearings, or parts are used and how small shortcuts can turn into expensive repairs.You'll also get an inside look at what's new at Superfici America, including expanded parts inventory, an improved customer support ticketing system, and an upcoming service contract program launching in 2026.Whether you're a seasoned finishing professional or new to running automated equipment, this episode is packed with practical advice to protect your machine and your bottom line.🔧 Questions or need support? Reach the Superfici America team at [email protected] or visit superficiamerica.com

In this episode of The Finishing Touch Podcast, we welcome Andrew Galgano of Manhattan Laminates and discuss an exciting collaboration with ISP Millwork to develop what will become the first UV finishing line on Long Island, New York.Recorded inside the Superfici America lab in Concord, North Carolina, this episode takes you behind the scenes of a full UV finishing trial here equipment, coatings, and technical expertise came together to create a system designed to:✔ Dramatically shorten dry and cure times✔ Increase production throughput✔ Expand product offerings✔ Deliver high-gloss polyester finishes faster✔ Help a millwork manufacturer grow their businessWe tested UV polyester sealers and topcoats, water-based UV acrylic coatings, and explored gel or B-stage curing techniques to optimize film build and sanding performance. The result? Multi-coat systems cured in minutes, not days, allowing projects that traditionally take a week to move toward completion in as little as two days.This partnership between Superfici America (finishing equipment), Manhattan Laminates (coating supplier), and premium coating manufacturers like ICA and AcromaPro demonstrates how collaboration can unlock new capabilities for architectural millwork and high-gloss door production in the competitive New York market.We also highlight the importance of technical support from in-lab testing to on-site service and how responsive support plays a key role in long-term customer success.If you're interested in:UV curing technologyHigh-gloss polyester finishingWater-based UV coatingsFlatline spray systemsIncreasing efficiency in wood finishingReducing production bottlenecksThis episode is packed with practical insight.👉 For more information about UV finishing systems and how Superfici America can help improve your production process, visit: https://www.superficiamerica.com/salesteam#UVFinishing #WoodFinishing #SuperficiAmerica #Millwork #HighGloss #PolyesterFinish #WaterBasedCoatings #IndustrialFinishing #ArchitecturalWoodwork #ManufacturingInnovation #FlatlineFinishing

Join us for a special episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, recorded live from the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas, Nevada! Host Bret Johnson sits down with Tony McAuley, Superfici America’s Canadian Area Sales Manager, to dive into the world of automated finishing.In this episode, Tony shares his journey from hardwood flooring to becoming a finishing expert, offering unique insights into the Canadian market and how it aligns with European trends. We discuss key challenges like labor shortages, inconsistent quality, and how automation is transforming the industry. Tony also breaks down how Superfici’s cutting-edge solutions and top-notch support system help customers stay ahead, plus addresses common concerns about automation and job security.Key Topics:Tony’s background and passion for finishingChallenges driving automation in the Canadian marketHow Superfici supports customers with service and diagnosticsDebunking myths about automation replacing jobsTips for operators transitioning to automated systemsWhether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the automated finishing world, this episode is packed with practical insights and industry trends to help you elevate your craft.Stay ahead in automated finishing—subscribe for more expert interviews and industry tips.#AWFSFair #AutomatedFinishing #SuperficiAmerica #FinishingTouchPodcast #Woodworking #IndustryInsights

In this episode, host Bret Johnson dives into one of the most fundamental topics in automated finishing the five major variables that affect film thickness. Whether you’re a seasoned coating professional or just getting started in finishing operations, this episode will help you understand how to fine-tune your process for consistent, high-quality results.👉 In this episode, we cover:00:39 - What is a wet film gauge?01:12 - Five Points of Film Thickness01:24 - Tip size — How orifice and fan pattern influence coating output04:14 - Line Speed — Balancing production rate with finish quality06:51 - Reciprocator Speed — Achieving optimal overlap and avoiding striping08:56 - Fluid Pressure — Managing coating flow for smooth, defect-free surfaces10:47 - Air Pressure — Fine-tuning atomization for ideal coverage12:56 - Know the consequences of your changes.💡 Key takeaways:Learn how each variable interacts with the others to produce the perfect finish. Discover best practices for testing and dialing in settings in the lab. Understand how Superfici’s automated systems help maintain consistency across production lines.📞 Need support or want to test your setup? Visit our website or contact Superfici America support [email protected] For tools and SWAG, email [email protected] — we’ll even send you a mil gauge to help you get started!🧰 Resources & More: Visit superficiamerica.com for tutorials, support videos, and equipment details.#SuperficiAmerica #AutomatedFinishing #FinishingTouchPodcast #Coatings #FilmThickness #SprayTechnology #IndustrialFinishing #WoodFinishing #Manufacturing

In this special episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast by Superfici America, recorded live at the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas! Join host Bret Johnson as he sits down with Tom Elliott, Northeast Area Sales Manager, to dive into the world of automated finishing.In this episode, Tom shares his 30+ years of experience in the woodworking and finishing industry, from selling machinery in New England to leading innovative projects with Superfici America. Discover how automation transforms small to mid-sized shops, learn about unique applications beyond woodworking (like aerospace and defense coatings), and hear how Superfici customizes solutions for even the tightest spaces.Key Highlights:Tom's journey from woodworking machinery to automated finishing expertise.How automation boosts consistency and productivity for businesses new to the technology.Creative solutions for small shops with limited space. Superfici’s approach to tackling specialized coating applications for metals, composites, and more.Whether you're a seasoned pro or a new operator, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your finishing game.#FinishingTouchPodcast #SuperficiAmerica #AWFSFair #AutomatedFinishing #Woodworking 🔗 Visit us at www.superficiamerica.com for more information.

In this episode of The Finishing Touch Podcast from Superfici America, host Bret Johnson breaks down six of the most common myths about automated finishing. Learn how modern systems are flexible enough for small shops, make quick color changes simple, and deliver consistent results even in small-batch production.Discover how flatline reciprocating sprayers handle stains and shaker doors, how to achieve perfect edge coverage, and why today’s automation technology is easier to use and maintain than ever before.Visit www.superficiamerica.com for tutorials, product information or to reach out to your Superfici America Sales Representative.#SuperficiAmerica #FinishingTouchPodcast #AutomatedFinishing #Woodworking #Manufacturing #SurfaceFinishing

Join host Bret Johnson for a special episode of the Finishing Touch podcast, recorded live at the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas, Nevada!In this episode, we dive into the world of automated finishing with Dean Sager, Southeast Area Sales Manager at Superfici America. With 20 years of experience, Dean shares his journey from SCM Group to Superfici, insights on transitioning from hand spraying to automated flatline finishing, and how automation helps small businesses boost consistency and compete effectively.Learn about the benefits of flatline finishing, real-world customer success stories, and why repeat customers trust Superfici for their finishing solutions. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the industry, this episode is packed with practical tips and expert advice to elevate your finishing game!🌐 Visit Superfici America: www.superficiamerica.com #FinishingTouchPodcast #AutomatedFinishing #SuperficiAmerica #AWFSFair #FlatlineFinishing #Woodworking #FinishingSolutions #Coatings #SmallBusinessTips #Manufacturing