A1 Water & Mold Removal MA Offers Effective Water Restoration Service in Malden, MA — MENAFN.COM

(MENAFN — GetNews)

Malden, MA — If looking for a company that can provide immediate and reliable water damage services in the Malden area at a reasonable rate, A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is a prestigious company, famous for the efficiency of their multiple services including water damage removal. Their proud locally-owned company has been serving its community for years, striving to be the leaders in its field, which they have successfully achieved thanks to their high sense of urgency and genuine interest to serve with professionalism.  

A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is considered the #1 choice for homeowners and business owners in Malden and the neighboring areas, as their expertly trained technicians do their best to build lasting relationships with each of their clients by offering them affordable and transparent services, all performed with the finest products and state-of-the-art tools. 

«Our techs are not only highly trained and skilled, but they are IICRC certified. When you hire our company, you can rest assured that you are dealing with state-licensed technicians. We take pride in our work and go that extra mile to ensure that everything is done up to code. Our work will not only pass any state inspection, but it is guaranteed to last for years to come,» added the spokesperson for A1 Water & Mold Removal MA, regarding their fully licensed, insured, and guaranteed services. 

Their full-service water removal company also specializes in mold remediation and restoration services, fire damage restoration, attic and basement mold removal or inspection, commercial restoration, crawlspace encapsulation, flood damage cleanup, odor removal, sewage cleanup, storm recovery, sump pump clean up and more. In addition, A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is available 24/7 for all types of emergencies, offering their clients peace of mind that their homes and businesses are in the hands of the experts, regardless of the time of day they are called.  

At A1 Water & Mold Removal MA, the success of their services is reflected through their impeccable reputation and multiple 5-star reviews. Their high sense of urgency, honesty, and reliability is what allows them to stand out from their competitors and be the trusted partner of many families and business owners, who for many years, have trusted and recommended their services to many others in the area. 

«Their observation is the best and the tools and equipment they use are of modern technology. They provided me detailed test results. Highly authentic,» said one of their past clients, regarding her experience hiring A1 Water & Mold Removal MA for her residential services. 

A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is located at 32 Fairmont St, Malden, MA 02148. Their business hours are Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and 24/7 for emergencies. For dependable Malden mold removal , contact their team via phone at (781) 332-4824 or send online inquiries via email to . For additional information regarding their services, visit their website.

Media Contact
Company Name: A1 Water & Mold Removal MA
Contact Person: Sam D
Email: Send Email
Phone: (781) 332-4824
Address: 32 Fairmont St.
City: Malden
State: MA
Country: United States
Website: https://ift.tt/2SeMXff

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source https://menafn.com/1099645266/A1-Water-Mold-Removal-MA-Offers-Effective-Water-Restoration-Service-in-Malden-MA

How To Battle Mold and Mildew In Your Home — Popular Mechanics

One of the most common and challenging problems facing homeowners today is how to deal with mold and mildew.

These tips will help eradicate mold and mildew from inside your home, but first let’s discuss the differences and similarities between these two scourges.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are types of fungi, and each thrives in warm, moist environments, such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and crawlspaces. Mold is usually black or dark green, and it’s slimy and musty smelling. Mildew is most often gray or white and it has a powdery, fluffy texture.

Mildew typically grows on top of damp surfaces, so it’s easier to clean off than mold, which tends to grow into and behind surfaces, including walls and ceilings. There’s also one other important difference: Prolonged exposure to mold can cause all sorts of health issues, including migraine headaches, respiratory failure, fatigue, joint pain, depression, heart problems and irritation of eyes and throat. Mildew isn’t nearly as invasive or dangerous as mold, but in some cases, exposure will cause respiratory and nasal irritation.

The good news is that most mold and mildew growth can be eliminated by first reducing excessive moisture, and then cleaning and killing the fungi with an appropriate cleaner.

Reducing Moisture

Air Purifier and dehumidifier. Concept for dehumidifying room. Humidity selection button. Humidity percentage display.

deyangeorgievGetty Images

Excessive moisture can be introduced into a home in several ways, including a leak, very high relative humidity, or inadequate ventilation. If you find mold growing on roof rafters or on the underside of the roof sheathing, then check for water penetration from a nail hole, or damaged flashing in a valley, around a chimney or where a sidewall meets a roof plane—and it doesn’t take much of a leak to promote mold and mildew growth; a surface just has to remain damp to support fungi.

Larger leaks, such as those caused by a busted water pipe or baseboard heater, can cause quite a bit of damage, especially to ceilings and walls. Mold and mildew will quickly flourish in dark, dank spaces, so it’s important to cut out and remove any water-damaged drywall and sodden insulation from between the wall studs and ceiling joists. Leave the wood framing exposed for a few days, so it can dry out. You can speed up the drying process with some electric fans.

During extended periods of high humidity, excessive moisture in the air can cause mold and mildew to grow on damp surfaces, including drywall, ceramic tile, fabrics, upholstery, and even wallpaper. The simplest ways to reduce high humidity is to run the air conditioning and use dehumidifiers.

⚠️Be sure the dehumidifier’s reservoir doesn’t over flow or it’ll flood the floor, creating a new moisture problem.

Also, have your air-conditioning system checked annually by an HVAC technician to confirm it’s operating properly and efficiently. An out-of-tune A/C unit can pump too much moisture into the house.

Another effective way to reduce moisture is to increase ventilation. This is especially important in today’s energy-efficient homes, which are almost airtight. A surprising amount of moisture is released into the air during many everyday activities, including cooking, showering, washing dishes, even exhaling. And if this excessive moisture isn’t moved out of the house, it can promote mold and mildew growth.

So, be sure to turn on the bathroom vent fan whenever you take a shower, and allow the fan to run for at least 10 minutes after showering. And check to be sure the fan’s ductwork runs to the outdoors; it should never simply blow hot, moist air into the attic.

Always use the kitchen range hood when cooking, including when boiling water. And, again, be sure the range hood exhausts to the outdoors. A re-circulating range hood, which simply draws air through a filter and then blows it back into the kitchen, is totally useless at removing moisture, smoke, and odors from your home.

Cleaning Mold and Mildew

Tile joint is cleaned of dirt and mold with a sponge

Ralf GeitheGetty Images

There are several different types of mold-and-mildew removers available online and at home centers and hardware stores. Most of these cleaners work pretty well, just be sure to read the label carefully to confirm that you’re using the correct type. Some products are general-purpose cleaners, while others are specifically formulated for tub and tile surfaces.

However, you can make an effective, affordable cleaner with bleach, which has been proven to not only remove mold and mildew, but it also kills the spores to prevent it from growing back. Now, you can use regular liquid chlorine bleach to clean away mold and mildew, but I’d suggest using oxygen bleach powder instead. Oxygen bleach costs a bit more, but if you spill any on your clothing, carpeting or upholstery, it won’t bleach out the color. More importantly, though, oxygen bleach doesn’t evaporate nearly as quickly as chlorine bleach, so it stays on the surface longer and kills more effectively.

⚠️Be sure to wear rubber gloves and protective eye goggles when cleaning with any bleach product.

To kill light to moderate mold and mildew growth, pour one cup of oxygen bleach into one gallon of hot water. To remove heavy staining, use two cups of bleach to one gallon of hot water. Mix well until all of the bleach crystals are completely dissolved.

Pour the bleach mixture into a quart-size spray bottle, or for larger jobs, into a three-gallon pump-up garden sprayer. Saturate the mold and mildew stains with the bleach solution and then wait at least 30 minutes.

Next, use a nylon stiff-bristle scrub brush to scrub off the stains. Wait for the surfaces to dry, then check to make sure they’re clean. If you see even the smallest speck of mold or mildew, spray the area again and repeat the process.

source https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/a30743006/how-to-clean-mold-mildew/

Mattiello’s Top Staffer Montanaro and Mold Cleanup Company’s Boss Are Longtime Friends — GoLocalProv

Monday, February 03, 2020

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Frank Montanaro, PHOTO: LinkedIn

When there were reports of mold in the Joint Committee on Legislative Services (JCLS) offices in the State House, Frank Montanaro knew just who to call.

Montanaro, the executive director of the JCLS and Speaker of House Nicholas Mattiello’s go-to guy, called Single Source to do the cleanup.

He knew the company well, as he had a long-standing personal relationship with Jack Pomeranz — who, with his family, runs Single Source.

According to the company’s website, “Jack Pomeranz continues to share his disaster restoration industry expertise in the role of Single Source Executive Vice President of Business Development.”

The Department of Administration tells GoLocal that Montanaro alone called in the company. «My Division placed an emergency request for work on behalf of JCLS. DCAMM did not remove any items in the JCLS office. Single Source had already been onsite to conduct preliminary work, so DCAMM proceeded with the same firm,” said Carole Cornelison, Associate Director, DCAMM.

Over the past three-plus years, Single Source has received more than $147,000 in state payments, according to Rhode Island’s transparency portal.

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Jack Pomeranz, Single Source

Pomeranz and Montanaro Weekend in NYC

Pomeranz and Montanaro’s relationship goes back years.

In the midst of Mattiello’s controversial re-election race in 2016, Montanaro and Pomeranz traveled together by boat for a multi-day July 4th celebration.

Montanaro declined to be interviewed, but Mattiello’s spokesman Larry Berman wrote in an email to GoLocal, “Frank said he and his wife paid for all their personal expenses on a trip to New York three and a half years ago.“

While Pomeranz’s company got the call for the State House cleanup work, a competing company tells GoLocal that the Rhode Island system is politically driven.

On Saturday, GoLocal reported that the general manager of a Rhode Island mold remediation company is calling the bid system in the state rigged. Two company executives contacted GoLocal after it unveiled the use of the firm to clean mold in the State House had strong ties  Mattiello and his staff.

Chris Gagnon with Servpro said that his partner Frank Mattos had been told to “give to Mattiello” — and that Servpro was audited not once, but twice, following a significant contract in 2016 with the state, that he says he believes was brought on by a competitor.

Mattos operates Servpro of Providence, as well as Warwick/East Greenwich and Cranston in Rhode Island; he also operates Servpros in Boston, Weymouth-Hingham and Quincy.

«Right now, [the work awarded] is simply based on relationships,» said Gagnon. «And that’s not right.»

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JCLS Actions Under Investigation By State Police

Presently, the Rhode Island State Police are investigating actions tied to the JCLS as it relates to a threatened audit of the Rhode Island Convention Center.

In addition, House Minority Leader Blake Filippi has raised questions about records of the JCLS. Filippin sent the following to Montanaro following the removal of items from the JCLS offices:

«I hereby direct you to provide the members of the JCLS with a written log of all records and computer hard drives that were removed from the JCLS offices, their current location(s), and a list of all persons with access to these locations. Given the damage created by the presence of mold to documents and hard drives, additionally please include a log of any documents or hard drives that have been destroyed. 

I also demand a written commitment that all documents and hard drives will be preserved, only accessed in the normal course of business, and that none of these items will be moved, removed or altered without prior written notice to the members of JCLS. 

If I do not hear from you by 10 AM on January 29, 2020, I will seek injunctive relief in Superior Court compelling compliance with our General Laws.»

Donations and Personal Relations

The friendship between Montanaro and Pomeranz is not the only close personal tie. Pomeranz is engaged to Mattiello’s former administrative staffer, who is now assistant to Majority Leader Joe Shekarchi. She, too, is a donor to Mattiello — having donated $350 to her former boss.

She earns $83,995.86 annually according to state records.

Pomeranz and other family members have donated over $8,000 to politicians in Rhode Island.

Members of the Pomeranz family have donated $1,700 to Mattiello.

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source https://www.golocalprov.com/news/mattiellos-top-staffer-montanaro-and-mold-cleanup-companys-boss-are-longtim

A1 Water & Mold Removal MA Offers Effective Water Restoration Service in Malden, MA — Press Release — Digital Journal

A1 Water & Mold Removal MA Offers Effective Water Restoration Service in Malden, MA

Malden, MA — If looking for a company that can provide immediate and reliable water damage services in the Malden area at a reasonable rate, A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is a prestigious company, famous for the efficiency of their multiple services including water damage removal. Their proud locally-owned company has been serving its community for years, striving to be the leaders in its field, which they have successfully achieved thanks to their high sense of urgency and genuine interest to serve with professionalism.  

A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is considered the #1 choice for homeowners and business owners in Malden and the neighboring areas, as their expertly trained technicians do their best to build lasting relationships with each of their clients by offering them affordable and transparent services, all performed with the finest products and state-of-the-art tools. 

«Our techs are not only highly trained and skilled, but they are IICRC certified. When you hire our company, you can rest assured that you are dealing with state-licensed technicians. We take pride in our work and go that extra mile to ensure that everything is done up to code. Our work will not only pass any state inspection, but it is guaranteed to last for years to come,» added the spokesperson for A1 Water & Mold Removal MA, regarding their fully licensed, insured, and guaranteed services. 

Their full-service water removal company also specializes in mold remediation and restoration services, fire damage restoration, attic and basement mold removal or inspection, commercial restoration, crawlspace encapsulation, flood damage cleanup, odor removal, sewage cleanup, storm recovery, sump pump clean up and more. In addition, A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is available 24/7 for all types of emergencies, offering their clients peace of mind that their homes and businesses are in the hands of the experts, regardless of the time of day they are called.  

At A1 Water & Mold Removal MA, the success of their services is reflected through their impeccable reputation and multiple 5-star reviews. Their high sense of urgency, honesty, and reliability is what allows them to stand out from their competitors and be the trusted partner of many families and business owners, who for many years, have trusted and recommended their services to many others in the area. 

«Their observation is the best and the tools and equipment they use are of modern technology. They provided me detailed test results. Highly authentic,» said one of their past clients, regarding her experience hiring A1 Water & Mold Removal MA for her residential services. 

A1 Water & Mold Removal MA is located at 32 Fairmont St, Malden, MA 02148. Their business hours are Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and 24/7 for emergencies. For dependable Malden mold removal, contact their team via phone at (781) 332-4824 or send online inquiries via email to Support@superbrestorationguysofma.com. For additional information regarding their services, visit their website.

Media Contact
Company Name: A1 Water & Mold Removal MA
Contact Person: Sam D
Email: Send Email
Phone: (781) 332-4824
Address:32 Fairmont St.
City: Malden
State: MA
Country: United States
Website: https://www.superbrestorationguysofma.com

source http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/4575892

Central Restoration Named Best in the Area — Clare County Review

February 3, 2020

Shown here is some of Central Restoration’s current fleet of vehicles, ready to serve your needs.

Voters in the Review Best of the Best contest picked Central Restoration as the best home restoration in the area.

Owned by Justin and Aaron Ridenour, the business has been growing in the area since 2009.

Gardner Ablett, Central Restoration’s Office Manager says, “We attribute our growth to our dedication to 100 percent customer satisfaction and excellent communication.”

Central Restoration Inc. is your one stop source for residential, commercial, and industrial damage restoration and cleanup services. They specialize in fire, water, wind, mold removal, asbestos, lead abatement and bio-hazard cleanup and restoration. “We can and will do everything we can to restore your home after fire and smoke damage. We will walk you through the whole process step by step. We are a complete single source provider with 24-hour emergency response, you are our priority.” owner Justin Ridenour said.

Central Restorations certified technician are professional, emergency response is quick and services are complete. They are prepared to handle biohazard and trauma related cleanup in home, business or industrial setting.

It is a 24 hour – seven day a week business and someone is always available to answer a call. Their number is 989-e86-6994, email is info@centralrestorationinc.com and the website is https://ift.tt/2ScNlLj. They are also on Facebook.

source https://www.clarecountyreview.com/top-stories/central-restoration-named-best-in-the-area/

Charleston Westside resident feuds with BAR to replace of old, rusting roof — Charleston Post Courier

Tucked off Fishburne Street is Stephan Reyka’s home on Larnes Street.

Reyka and his girlfriend — both nurses at the Medical University of South Carolina — have slowly worked to renovate their home, with a new addition on the back nearing completion. To top off all the work they’ve done, the couple wants to replace their roof.

But city staff told them they can’t replace their roof with an affordable option. Instead, they have been instructed to patch it when they see water damage inside.

The historic, hand-crimped roof on their freedman’s cottage is leaking. Replacing it with a historically accurate one, they’ve been told by roofing contractors, would leave them in the same situation they’re in now: battling rust, moisture and mold in the attic, water damage, and wood rot to the ceiling.

To Reyka, city staff are digging in their heels over an area of Charleston that doesn’t share the historic significance of homes south of Broad. He said he’s seen others in his neighborhood remove their old roofs and put in new, shingled ones on instead. 

Reyka hasn’t formally applied to demolish his roof, city staff said Friday, and all discussions he’s had so far have been preliminary. The city’s Board of Architectural Review office and volunteer board have jurisdiction, though, and city staff said plenty of other homeowners with roofs over 50 years old comply. The volunteer board is charged with protecting the historical character and preservation. 

Steven Reyka

Stephan Reyka holds a piece of his tin roof on Larnes Street in downtown Charleston that had rusted through. The roof has leaks that have caused interior damage. Brad Nettles/Staff

Reyka said he received initial, verbal approval to demolish and replace the roof with steel and a ridge vent on top, but later, that approval was rescinded. After consulting with his roofing contractor, he learned hand-crimped metal would crack and void the manufacturers warranty. He’d be in the same situation he now faces, leaking roof and all.

When he explained this to a city staffer who visited the home, Reyka said the staffer shrugged her shoulders.

«I handed her a cut piece of the metal roof to show the significance of the rust and deterioration,» Reyka said. «She argued the rust was paint.»

He emailed the mayor at the end of December, citing his issues with the way city staff interacted with him. 

«We are not requesting to replace our metal roof with shingles,» Reyka said in that email. «We are requesting permission to replace it with a beautiful, brand new, historically accurate metal roof which will look almost identical to the existing one. The only difference being the new roof will function as a roof should, will not leak, and will keep my family dry and healthy.»

Steven Reyka

Stephan Reyka’s over-50-year-old tin roof on Larnes Street has caused interior damage from leaks. Brad Nettles/Staff

Reyka said he has not heard back from Mayor John Tecklenburg. City spokesman Jack O’Toole said the email was forwarded to City Planner Jacob Lindsey to address.

Lindsey defended his staff. He said they have gone «above and beyond the call of duty to evaluate the property and provide professional and courteous service.» 

1st Charleston hotel under new rules looks to court medical district visitors

«This is no different from the many reviews of roof material that staff look at on a regular basis throughout the city,» Lindsey said.  «It’s a common challenge for homeowners throughout the city, but it’s also very important that historic buildings continue to maintain the historic nature and that includes the roof material.»

Lindsey said roof material and design has always been a serious consideration for staff and volunteers on the Board of Architectural review. So much so that years ago the group adopted a policy about historic roof materials like hand-crimped metal roofing.

«The board has long recognized that roof material is an important aspect of what makes downtown Charleston unique,» Lindsey said.

Steven Reyka

Stephan Reyka inspects his tin roof on Larnes Street in downtown Wednesday, January 22, 2020. Reyka wants to replace the roof due to leaks, but the city says he can’t because it’s over 50 years old, and therefore, historic. Brad Nettles/Staff

Lindsey said the BAR has «some level of jurisdiction over everything on the peninsula south of Mount Pleasant Street» and their responsibilities are broken into four areas:

  • The most intense level of review is the old Historic District starting at Radcliffe Street and up the spine of the peninsula between Meeting to King streets and up to the I-26 ramps.
  • The «Old City District» considered the «belly» of the peninsula, which gets some level of review.
  • The «Historic Corridor» north of Line Street and the main parcels that front onto King Street, Morrison Drive, Rutledge Avenue and Meeting Streets.
  • The last level of distinction is that the BAR has the authority to oversee demolitions concerning any property south of Mount Pleasant Street of any structure over 50 years old — and that includes roofs.

For homeowners who balk at the city’s BAR staff and board’s decision-making and move ahead with their plans, the city files stop-work orders. If they’re ignored, charges would come from the city’s livability court. Those who violate livability laws can be fined up to $1,087 a day for violations or face 30 days in jail.  

Reyka’s roof, because it is considered a smaller-scale item, was subject to review by city staff and has not been the subject of a small board meeting. Reyka has the option to have the BAR board consider an application once it is filed. City staff said that over the last two months worth’s of meetings, the BAR board agreed with staff recommendations 76 percent of the time.

2 Meeting Street hotels, including Charleston's 1st 'flatiron' building get design OK
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source https://www.postandcourier.com/news/charleston-westside-resident-feuds-with-bar-to-replace-of-old/article_58dd2120-3e22-11ea-9677-3fee88be0b79.html

Don’t Get Caught in the Flash-and-Shorts Chase — Plastics Technology

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The technology available today for injection molding is very impressive, providing molders with tools to increase part complexity and improve the quality and accuracy of production. Yet even with these advances there are still two obstacles that molders have to deal with. 

 


Atempting to “fix” short shots can result in producing flash and vice versa.

Atempting to “fix” short shots (above) can result in producing flash (below) and vice versa. A better approach is to start with an optimized process and seek the root cause of the initial problem—shorts or flash—and resolve that issue.

  

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to visit many different injection molding facilities spanning multiple industries, and the one thing that they all share are their top scrap reasons—flash and short shots. These are by far the most common defects in injection molding. One reason for this is that in most cases they are direct opposites of one another.

 

example of flash

 

Many of the actions we take to eliminate shorts can result in flash and vice versa. These actions can be made via changes to the process, mold, or combination of the two.

If the machine was running good parts and suddenly is producing shorts, something changed in that process, and it must be identified to resolve the issue.

For example: Shorts can be caused by inadequate venting in the mold, and to help eliminate these shorts, we may need to increase the depth of existing vents or add more. However, it is possible that by doing so, the result could be excessive flash. Now that flash is present, we decide to resolve our new problem by compromising the process to increase material viscosity. This can be done by lowering the melt temperature, causing an injection-pressure increase. This increased pressure increases our Delta P—the difference between maximum pressure used vs. maximum pressure required—so that the pressure now exceeds the maximum available injection pressure of the machine, which results in—you guessed it—sporadic short shots due to being pressure limited. So we’re back to where we started.

So, as you can imagine, there can be a fine line between flash and shorts, and that fact can shrink our process window significantly. Our goal as a processor is to find that middle ground far enough away from either side so that normal process variation doesn’t result in either defect.
 

Flash’s Root Causes


Flash can have many different causes, but two of the most common are excess cavity pressure and mold damage. Cavity pressure can cause flash when it exceeds the available clamp force. Once the clamp force is exceeded by the cavity pressure, the mold can physically open, allowing plastic to escape the cavity-forming steel.  Excess cavity pressure can have many causes of its own, including a blocked gate preventing some of the cavities from being filled. Mold damage can also allow for plastic to escape the cavity-forming steel by preventing the parting line from sealing properly.
 

Coming Up ‘Short’


Shorts or short shots are under-filled parts that are typically missing features due to lack of plastic. Sinks and under-packed parts can sometimes be related to shorts or can be an indication that shorts are starting. Shorts can be caused by a number of reasons, and it is critical to identify the root cause before trying to address them. Common causes include improper venting that prevents gasses from escaping so that plastic can’t flow into the cavity; or the nonreturn valve on the screw not closing properly and plastic flowing backwards as the machine injects. As I have stated in a previous column, understanding the why is critical to correcting the issue.
 

Finding the Root Cause, Avoiding the Chase


Keep in mind that both shorts and flash are symptoms of a deeper problem. We must understand what is causing the symptom before trying to fix it. For example, increasing shot size when shorts suddenly appear can result in flash, if the root cause isn’t understood before making the change. If the shorts are caused by debris stuck in the nonreturn valve, forcing it to remain open during injection, increasing your shot size may eliminate the shorts until the debris works free. Once the debris is freed from the nonreturn valve, and it is once again allowed to close properly, the extra shot size we added could cause the cavity pressure to exceed the clamping pressure and result in flashing the mold.

Just because you can make a few good-looking parts by reducing the hold pressure, that doesn’t mean that the process is robust enough to accommodate normal process variation in production.

In my experience flash and shorts are among the main problems that can start the “chase.” That refers to making process changes on a machine multiple times in reaction to the current defect. Example: A short is discovered and the machine operator informs the process technician of the issue. This busy technician stops what he or she is working on to come over to the machine and increases the hold pressure without doing any sort of root-cause investigation. The technician looks at a shot to verify the shorts are gone and tells the operator the parts are good to pack.

Let me be clear here and say that process changes should be the last thing we do to correct an issue. If the machine was running good parts and suddenly is producing shorts, something changed in that process, and it must be identified to resolve the issue. That said, we all get busy and pressure can push us towards the path of least resistance in order to move on to the next problem. We should always troubleshoot an issue and identify the root cause before making modifications, but that doesn’t always happen—it should, but it doesn’t.

Back to our example: A little time goes by and the operator starts seeing flash on the parts—that’s right, flash on the machine that was just producing shorts. It turns out that whatever was causing the shorts is sporadic and the additional hold pressure that was added is now causing the mold to flash. The operator gets a different technician, who notices that someone increased the hold pressure and now there is flash, so of course this technician lowers the hold pressure. No more flash, problem solved. What happens next? The sporadic issue that’s causing the shorts hits again and they return, forcing the operator to seek help again to address the shorts. This chase can go on for hours or even longer, depending on the skill level of the process team, the size of the overall process window, and the actual root cause.

When I think about this type of chase, as a processor, it does feel like something is working against you. I’ve been there. I can recall several shifts spent chasing a process early in my career … not knowing any better and being responsible for 12 aging machines with poorly designed molds and just trying to move on to the next firefight. In these cases, we bring this on ourselves to some extent, but it can take you off your game, especially if you’re trying to be in multiple places at the same time.

When it comes to troubleshooting flash and shorts, the first step is identifying which one is really the issue. Since they can be direct opposites of each other, it is key to know which defect is present at the optimal processing conditions. For example: Even though shorts are the issue we are currently seeing, flash could ultimately be what needs to be addressed. Flash could be preventing us from increasing our hold pressure to an optimal setting to compensate for normal process variation, which is resulting in short shots. So the issue we should be addressing is the flash at our optimal process setting and not the shorts that are currently present. The above example is important to remember during process development, as well. Just because you can make a few good-looking parts by reducing the hold pressure, that doesn’t mean that the process is robust enough to accommodate normal process variation in production. If we can develop a process that can prevent normal process variation from causing defects, troubleshooting becomes much more simplified and helps those process technicians make better decisions.

Finding the optimal process between flash and shorts will always be an obstacle for molders. I would also venture to say that they will continue to be the top scrap reasons for most molders. But how you approach problem solving will determine whether you chase these defects or will solve them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Robert Gattshall has more than 22 years’ experience in the injection molding industry and holds multiple certifications in Scientific Injection Molding and the tools of Lean Six Sigma. Gattshall has developed several “Best-in-Class” Poka Yoke systems with third-party production and process monitoring such as Intouch Production Monitoring and RJG. He has held multiple management and engineering positions throughout the industry in automotive, medical, electrical and packaging production. Gattshall is also a member of the Plastics Industry Association’s Public Policy Committee. In January 2018, he joined IPL Plastics as process engineering manager. Contact: (262) 909-5648; rgattshall@gmail.com.

RELATED CONTENT

  • Injection Molding: You Must Dry Hygroscopic Resins

    The reason you dry certain plastics is to get the moisture out. But why does the moisture have to be taken out before processing?

  • How to Reduce Sinks

    Modifications to the common core pin can be a simple solution, but don’t expect all resins to behave the same. Gas assist is also worth a try.

  • How to Stop Flash

    Flashing of a part can occur for several reasons—from variations in the process or material to tooling trouble.

source https://www.ptonline.com/articles/dont-get-caught-in-the-flash-and-shorts-chase

Charleston Westside resident feuds with BAR to replace old, rusting roof — Charleston Post Courier

Tucked off Fishburne Street is Stephan Reyka’s home on Larnes Street.

Reyka and his girlfriend — both nurses at the Medical University of South Carolina — have slowly worked to renovate their home, with a new addition on the back nearing completion. To top off all the work they’ve done, the couple wants to replace their roof.

But city staff told them they can’t replace their roof with an affordable option. Instead, they have been instructed to patch it when they see water damage inside.

The historic, hand-crimped roof on their freedman’s cottage is leaking. Replacing it with a historically accurate one, they’ve been told by roofing contractors, would leave them in the same situation they’re in now: battling rust, moisture and mold in the attic, water damage, and wood rot to the ceiling.

To Reyka, city staff are digging in their heels over an area of Charleston that doesn’t share the historic significance of homes south of Broad. He said he’s seen others in his neighborhood remove their old roofs and put in new, shingled ones on instead. 

Reyka hasn’t formally applied to demolish his roof, city staff said Friday, and all discussions he’s had so far have been preliminary. The city’s Board of Architectural Review office and volunteer board have jurisdiction, though, and city staff said plenty of other homeowners with roofs over 50 years old comply. The volunteer board is charged with protecting the historical character and preservation. 

Steven Reyka

Stephan Reyka holds a piece of his tin roof on Larnes Street in downtown Charleston that had rusted through. The roof has leaks that have caused interior damage. Brad Nettles/Staff

Reyka said he received initial, verbal approval to demolish and replace the roof with steel and a ridge vent on top, but later, that approval was rescinded. After consulting with his roofing contractor, he learned hand-crimped metal would crack and void the manufacturers warranty. He’d be in the same situation he now faces, leaking roof and all.

When he explained this to a city staffer who visited the home, Reyka said the staffer shrugged her shoulders.

«I handed her a cut piece of the metal roof to show the significance of the rust and deterioration,» Reyka said. «She argued the rust was paint.»

He emailed the mayor at the end of December, citing his issues with the way city staff interacted with him. 

«We are not requesting to replace our metal roof with shingles,» Reyka said in that email. «We are requesting permission to replace it with a beautiful, brand new, historically accurate metal roof which will look almost identical to the existing one. The only difference being the new roof will function as a roof should, will not leak, and will keep my family dry and healthy.»

Steven Reyka

Stephan Reyka’s over-50-year-old tin roof on Larnes Street has caused interior damage from leaks. Brad Nettles/Staff

Reyka said he has not heard back from Mayor John Tecklenburg. City spokesman Jack O’Toole said the email was forwarded to City Planner Jacob Lindsey to address.

Lindsey defended his staff. He said they have gone «above and beyond the call of duty to evaluate the property and provide professional and courteous service.» 

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«This is no different from the many reviews of roof material that staff look at on a regular basis throughout the city,» Lindsey said.  «It’s a common challenge for homeowners throughout the city, but it’s also very important that historic buildings continue to maintain the historic nature and that includes the roof material.»

Lindsey said roof material and design has always been a serious consideration for staff and volunteers on the Board of Architectural review. So much so that years ago the group adopted a policy about historic roof materials like hand-crimped metal roofing.

«The board has long recognized that roof material is an important aspect of what makes downtown Charleston unique,» Lindsey said.

Steven Reyka

Stephan Reyka inspects his tin roof on Larnes Street in downtown Wednesday, January 22, 2020. Reyka wants to replace the roof due to leaks, but the city says he can’t because it’s over 50 years old, and therefore, historic. Brad Nettles/Staff

Lindsey said the BAR has «some level of jurisdiction over everything on the peninsula south of Mount Pleasant Street» and their responsibilities are broken into four areas:

  • The most intense level of review is the old Historic District starting at Radcliffe Street and up the spine of the peninsula between Meeting to King streets and up to the I-26 ramps.
  • The «Old City District» considered the «belly» of the peninsula, which gets some level of review.
  • The «Historic Corridor» north of Line Street and the main parcels that front onto King Street, Morrison Drive, Rutledge Avenue and Meeting Streets.
  • The last level of distinction is that the BAR has the authority to oversee demolitions concerning any property south of Mount Pleasant Street of any structure over 50 years old — and that includes roofs.

For homeowners who balk at the city’s BAR staff and board’s decision-making and move ahead with their plans, the city files stop-work orders. If they’re ignored, charges would come from the city’s livability court. Those who violate livability laws can be fined up to $1,087 a day for violations or face 30 days in jail.  

Reyka’s roof, because it is considered a smaller-scale item, was subject to review by city staff and has not been the subject of a small board meeting. Reyka has the option to have the BAR board consider an application once it is filed. City staff said that over the last two months worth’s of meetings, the BAR board agreed with staff recommendations 76 percent of the time.

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source https://www.postandcourier.com/news/charleston-westside-resident-feuds-with-bar-to-replace-old-rusting/article_58dd2120-3e22-11ea-9677-3fee88be0b79.html

Get livestock feed tested for mold — Jamestown Sun

“Whether dealing with drought and/or excessive moisture, both can impact livestock feed with the development of molds,” cautions Yuri Montanholi, North Dakota State University Extension beef cattle specialist. “Molds are generally in the agricultural environment all of the time. The problem occurs when molds invade developing plants or stored feeds and grow under stress, producing mycotoxins.”

Not all molds are bad. Some are not toxin producers, but filamentous mold can reduce the nutritional value of the feed. Also, mold spores in feeds that are agitated, for example when feeding hay, can be irritating to the respiratory system.

The toxins usually are consumed in feed or possibly inhaled to cause harm. Often, the problem is a long-term one and cattle eat the suspect feed before producers realize they have a problem.

You can’t judge a mold toxin problem by the color of the mold, according to Michelle Mostrom, NDSU veterinary toxicologist. Certain molds such as Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. are green, Alternaria spp. and Cladosporium spp. are black, and Fusarium spp., Diploidia spp. and some Penicillium spp. can be white. But mold growth does not always mean that toxins were produced. Also, molds can grow and die, and not be visually detected, yet they may have produced toxins that are in the feed.

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Montanholi and Mostrom urge producers to be aware of feed conditions for livestock, particularly this winter. If molds are present in livestock feeds, the best approach is to discard the moldy portions of the feed and feed what appears to be normal. Although this may not completely avoid problems because the mold may be gone, but the mycotoxins remain in the feedstuff.

“As a veterinary toxicologist, I would say to be proactive and test a feedstuff that appears to be moldy for mycotoxins before feeding to animals, particularly pregnant animals,” Mostrom advises.

“Try to collect a representative sample of the feed,” she adds. “The best is to collect multiple samples of grain while transporting the feed from the field to bins or to a truck, or collect multiple samples of hay (e.g., probe) or silage during feeding.”

If the feed is positive for mycotoxins, certain animals may not be affected by that particular contamination level or may be capable of metabolizing the mycotoxin. Under some situations, the mycotoxin feed can be diluted to a safe level in the final ration.

“This is a great opportunity for producers to minimize issues with mycotoxins while saving feed,” Montanholi said. “The exception is aflatoxin-contaminated feed, which is potentially carcinogenic.”

Different mold toxins can cause a variety of clinical signs in different species. An initial clinical sign of toxic feed can be feed refusal, poor weight gain and diarrhea. With continual mycotoxin exposure or exposure to high doses of toxins, damage can occur to the animal’s liver, kidneys, brain, fetus and other organs.

You cannot test for all mycotoxins and call a feed “safe,” Mostrom said.

“Scientists have discovered that these molds can produce hundreds to thousands of mycotoxins, and we do not know how all of the toxins affect animals and do not have standards or tests for all toxins,” she notes. “Laboratories can test for the more common mycotoxins that are known to cause harm in animals and provide some guidance for feeding contaminated feeds. This is certainly a good start to minimize problems with mycotoxins.”

Contact your county’s Extension agent or an NDSU Extension specialist to learn more about sampling for mycotoxin analysis, as well as for other feed analysis related to quality.

Many countries, including the U.S., have regulatory limits or advisory guidelines on contamination of mycotoxins in human and animal feeds. These mycotoxin limits in food/feed can vary significantly with susceptible species, age of the animal and production status. The mycotoxin guidelines are available on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website, or go the National Grain and Feed Association website (https://www.ngfa.org) and look up FDA Guidance on Mycotoxins, or contact your local veterinarian or the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Lab.

source https://www.jamestownsun.com/business/agriculture/4885147-Get-livestock-feed-tested-for-mold

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