Tabco Chemical

03/16/2024

What’s aluminum anodizing, and how does it work?

Aluminum anodizing is a process used to increase the thickness of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts. Here's a brief explanation of the process:

1. Cleaning: The aluminum part is first cleaned with a solvent or alkaline detergent to remove any surface dirt or oil.

2. Pre-treatment: The part may then be treated to remove any surface irregularities, such as polishing, etching or bright-dipping to prepare the surface for anodizing.

3. Anodizing: The part is submerged in an electrolytic solution, typically a sulfuric acid bath, and a direct current is passed through the solution. The aluminum part itself is made the anode (positive electrode), hence the term 'anodizing'. Oxygen ions are released from the electrolyte and combine with the aluminum atoms at the surface of the part being anodized. This forms a layer of aluminum oxide, a hard and durable material that resists corrosion and wear.

4. Coloring (Optional): If a colored finish is desired, the anodized aluminum can be dyed before sealing. The porous nature of the anodized layer allows the dye to pe*****te the surface and color the part.

5. Sealing: The last step in the process is to seal the anodized surface to prevent the color from fading and to increase resistance to corrosion. This is usually done by immersing the part in boiling water or a sealant solution.

The result is a more durable, corrosion-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing aluminum part.

If you’re looking for anodizing chemicals, or somewhere to get your parts anodized, we would be happy to help.

03/11/2024

What are Forever Chemicals, aka PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They're a group of man-made chemicals that includes PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and many other chemicals. PFAS have been manufactured and used in a variety of industries around the globe, including in the United States since the 1940s. They're found in firefighting foams, oil and water repellents, furniture, waterproof clothes, take out containers, and non-stick cookware.

PFAS are called "forever chemicals" because they can accumulate in the body and the environment, and they take many years to break down. Some studies have shown they can affect the growth, learning, and behavior of infants and older children, lower a woman’s chance of getting pregnant, interfere with the body’s natural hormones, increase cholesterol levels, affect the immune system, and increase the risk of cancer.

Here are some ways to protect your family from PFAS:

1. Check if your water is affected: Some local water supplies have been affected by PFAS. If this is the case, consider installing a water treatment system that can remove PFAS.

2. Be cautious with packaging: PFAS can be present in food packaging materials, like microwave popcorn bags and fast food wrappers. Limit consumption of packaged and fast foods.

3. Be careful with cookware: Non-stick pots and pans can contain PFAS. Consider using stainless steel or cast iron cookware instead.

4. Check your cosmetics: Some cosmetics contain PFAS. Check the ingredients and opt for PFAS-free products.

5. Avoid stain resistance treatments: Some carpets, upholstery, and clothes are treated with PFAS for stain resistance. Consider alternatives that don't use these chemicals.

6. Be aware of contaminated sites: If you live near an industry that uses PFAS, you might be at risk. In this case, get your water tested and follow guidelines provided by your local health department.

7. PFAS can also be found in certain types of firefighting foam, so avoid unnecessary contact with these foams.

As with microplastics, it's hard to completely avoid PFAS, but taking these steps can reduce your family's exposure

03/11/2024

are increasingly pervasive in our environment and can be found in the air, water, and even our food. Here are some ways to limit your family's exposure to microplastics:

1. Reduce Plastic Use: The most effective way to reduce microplastics is to use less plastic. Opt for reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers. Choose products with minimal or no plastic packaging.

2. Avoid Microbeads: Some beauty and personal care products contain microbeads, tiny pieces of plastic. Check the ingredients list for terms like "polyethylene," "polypropylene," or "polyethylene terephthalate."

3. Choose Clothing Wisely: Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon can shed microplastics in the wash. Consider buying clothes made of natural fibers like cotton or wool.

4. Filter Your Water: Some water filters can remove larger microplastics from tap water. However, smaller particles may still get through.

(Micro plastics are particles under 5 mm in size, which in the water treatment world, is pretty easy to filter. We regularly filter water down to 0.00004 mm)

5. Eat Fresh Food: Microplastics can be found in some processed foods and beverages, particularly those packaged in plastic. Eating fresh, unpackaged food can help minimize exposure.

6. Clean Up: Participate in, or organize, local clean-up events in your community to help remove plastic waste from the environment.

7. Spread Awareness: Educate others about the issue of microplastics and how they can take action to reduce plastic pollution.

Remember, while it's currently impossible to completely avoid microplastics, these steps can help reduce your family's exposure.

03/11/2024

Whether you’re treating wastewater, cleaning a jet engine, anodizing aluminum, or anything in between, we’ve been delivering chemical solutions since 1981.

12/21/2023

Go check out our new website! https://www.tabcochem.com/

Tabco has been a trusted supplier of industrial chemicals for the past 40 years. Our team has extensive experience in the industry and is committed to building strong relationships with our clients. We understand the importance of accountability and strive to provide the best possible service to our customers.

Tabco was founded in 1981 by John Tahbaz, a PhD chemist from BYU, to provide and manufacture specialty industrial chemicals for the US military. Over the course of 40 years, he branched out into various other industries including automotive services, metal finishing, construction, food services, and various other verticals.

In December 2022, Tabco came under new ownership, with John Tahbaz playing a key advisory role in the business.

We look forward to another 40 years of delivering industrial chemical solutions one drum at a time.

Industrial solvent and chemical supplier, serving Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, and Weber counties. Bulk Acetone, Isopropyl Alcohol, MEK, Break Cleaner, Windshield Wash and more! Free delivery! Call Today 801-595-0119