MINNEAPOLIS— Learn about improving the efficiency of industrial finishing operations while maximizing investment returns by attending the Minnesota Paint and Powder Coating Expo 2012. The Twin Cities Chapter of Chemical Coaters Association International (CCAI) and the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MnTAP) at the University of Minnesota are hosting the 8^th Minnesota Paint and Powder Coating Expo on Thursday, March 15, 2012, at Century College in White Bear Lake, MN (near St. Paul). 

The expo will include a vendor show, hands-on demonstrations and three technical seminar tracks (Process Improvement, New Technologies and Special Topics in Finishing). An afternoon session will feature user/vendor success stories in optimizing finishing processes. The Expo expects to attract over 400 participants from the Upper Midwest. 

In conjunction with the expo, the Twin Cities Chapter of CCAI will host its annual symposium on March 14 at the same location. The Best Practices in Finishing Symposium will be an all-day interactive seminar presented by Nick Liberto, President, Powder Coating Consultants. Liberto will review the complete finishing process, emphasizing the best practices currently used within the industry. The symposium will focus special attention on troubleshooting process problems and maximizing operating efficiencies. 

Registration information and programming updates are posted on the Twin City Chapter of the Chemical Coaters Association International Web site at www.ccatc.com/expo.htm. Electronic registration for both events opens on January 9, 2012.