Industrial Talk Media

Industrial Talk is talking to Mehdi Kargar, CEO/Co-Founder at Maxterial, Inc. about "Innovative coating platform that significantly reduces corrosion".

Mehdi Kargar, founder of Maxterial, discussed the company's innovative coatings that replace hexavalent chromium, which is being phased out due to health and environmental risks. Maxterial's coating, tested in steel mills and hydraulic systems, offers superior durability, reducing downtime by up to 50% and improving energy efficiency by four times. The coating is manufactured using standard electrodeposition processes and existing chemical suppliers. Maxterial aims to create a scalable, cost-effective solution that meets regulatory deadlines and enhances industrial efficiency. The company's strategy includes building trust and partnerships with

Outline
Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress Announcement
Scott introduces the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress, emphasizing its importance and urging listeners to mark their calendars for November 3-5.
The event is described as a must-attend for cybersecurity professionals, offering networking opportunities and valuable insights.
Scott mentions their own participation and plans to broadcast and discuss cybersecurity with experts.
Contact information for the event is provided, and Speaker 1 encourages listeners to visit Industrial Talk for more details.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott reiterates the podcast's mission to celebrate industrial professionals and their contributions to solving global challenges.
The introduction sets the tone for the episode, emphasizing the importance of innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving in the industrial sector.
Scott introduces the guest, Mehdi Kargar, and the topic of discussion, which revolves around Maxterial and its innovative coatings solutions.
Mehdi Kargar's Background and Maxterial's Mission
Scott and Mehdi Kargar discuss Mehdi's background, including his immigration to America, education, and career path in engineering and entrepreneurship.
Mehdi explains the founding of Maxterial in 2015, initially as a coatings company with a focus on non-stick coatings made of metals.
The conversation shifts to Maxterial's evolution and its current focus on providing hexavalent chromium alternatives for industrial applications.
Mehdi shares the story of how Maxterial received early-stage funding from Peter Thiel's foundation, which played a crucial role in their development.
Maxterial's Hexavalent Chromium Alternative
Mehdi elaborates on the challenges and importance of replacing hexavalent chromium, which is used in various industrial applications but poses significant health and environmental risks.
He explains the regulatory deadlines for phasing out chromium, with the EU setting a 2027 deadline and the U.S. Army aiming for 2030.
Maxterial's solution is described as a complex coating that offers wear and corrosion resistance, energy efficiency, and improved labor efficiency compared to traditional chromium-based coatings.
Mehdi emphasizes the company's commitment to providing a scalable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to chromium.
Manufacturing and Supply Chain Strategy
Mehdi details Maxterial's manufacturing process, which involves standard electrodeposition techniques using existing plating infrastructure.
The company's supply chain strategy involves sourcing chemicals from various suppliers and providing them to end users through a licensing process.
Mehdi highlights the benefits of Maxterial's approach, including reduced capital expenditures, compatibility with existing manufacturing settings, and the potential to create jobs in the U.S.
The conversation touches on the challenges of convincing existing chromium suppliers to adopt Maxterial's solution and the importance of building trust with end users.
Quality and Testing of Maxterial's Coatings
Mehdi discusses the quality of Maxterial's coatings, emphasizing their performance in rigorous testing and real-world applications.
He provides examples of successful tests, including a steel mill in America and a world-renowned steel producer in Italy, where Maxterial's coatings demonstrated superior durability and efficiency.
Mehdi explains how Maxterial's coatings can be used in both corrosive and non-corrosive environments, simplifying supply chains and reducing costs for end users.
The conversation underscores the importance of proving the quality and reliability of Maxterial's products to build trust with potential customers.
Entrepreneurial Challenges and Future Outlook
Mehdi reflects on the challenges of building Maxterial, including the need for patience, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

MEHDI KARGAR'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehdi-kargar-01197119/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maxterial-inc/
Company Website: https://www.maxterial.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Meghan Eyvindsson and Robert Reinius from STAMFORD | AvK, (a part of Cummins, Inc) about "Alternator Solutions".

Overview

Robert Reinius and Meghan Eyvindsson discussed their roles at STAMFORD | AvK, an alternator supplier, at the PowerGen event in San Antonio, Texas. Robert, with nearly 20 years at STAMFORD | AvK, highlighted the company's focus on data centers, oil and gas, and marine markets. Meghan, the general manager for the Americas region, emphasized the importance of maintaining quality and reliability while expanding capacity. They explained that alternators convert mechanical energy into electricity, crucial for power generation. The conversation also touched on the impact of AI and digitalization in enhancing their products and services, and the challenges of meeting market demand amidst supply chain issues.

Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk
Scott introduces the episode of Industrial Talk, sponsored by the Propane Education and Research Council, highlighting their commitment to safety training and innovative propane power technology.
Scott welcomes listeners to the podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their contributions to solving global problems.
Scott introduces the guests, Robert and Meghan, and expresses high hopes for the conversation.
Initial Impressions and Show Experience
Robert shares his positive experience at the show, mentioning the opportunity to meet customers and understand their needs for the year.
Scott asks if Robert has attended the show before, to which he responds that he attended before Covid and has been there every year post-Covid.
Scott inquires if Meghan has attended before, and she confirms it is her first year.
Scott and Robert discuss the size and attendance of the show, with Robert noting the show is bigger this year due to the big ideas and data center demand.
Meghan's Background and Role at STAMFORD | AvK
Scott asks Meghan to introduce herself, and she explains her role as the general manager for the Americas region at STAMFORD | AvK, starting in July of the previous year.
Meghan shares her experience in the power generation industry since 2012, including roles in parts, service, and sales.
Scott and Meghan discuss the global nature of their company, with Meghan mentioning the team's efforts to meet customers and build relationships.
Scott inquires about Robert's background, and he explains his nearly 2000 days with STAMFORD | AvK and over 10 years in the power generation business with ABB.
Understanding Alternators and Their Role
Scott asks for a general explanation of what STAMFORD | AvK does, and Meghan explains they are an alternator supplier.
Scott expresses confusion about alternators, and Robert explains their role in converting mechanical energy into electricity.
Scott and Robert discuss the difference between generators and alternators, with Robert clarifying that alternators are essential components of generator packages.
Scott and Meghan discuss the measurement of alternators, with Meghan explaining that output is typically measured in torque.
Market Trends and Company Response
Scott asks about the impact of the data center market on their business, and Meghan explains their focus on oil and gas, marine markets, and maintaining quality and reliability.
Scott inquires about the company's vertical integration and ability to scale production to meet market demand.
Robert explains their ability to scale production and the importance of digitalization and industrialization in supporting their customers.
Scott and Meghan discuss the challenges of maintaining quality and reliability while expanding capacity to meet market demand.
Digitalization and AI in Alternator Technology
Scott asks about the company's approach to digitalization and AI, and Robert explains their focus on providing data for AI data set builders.
Meghan discusses the importance of intentional data collection and critical thinking in leveraging AI for useful information.
Scott inquires about the company's use of AI for analyzing data and making tactical decisions, with Robert explaining their role in providing the data for others to analyze.
Scott and Meghan discuss the potential of AI in the power generation industry and the importance of smart people in addressing industry challenges.

MEGHAN EYVINDSSON'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghaneyvindsson/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stamford-avk/
Company Website: https://www.stamford-avk.com/
ROBERT REINIUS' CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-reinius/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Penn State and talking to Kayla Konieczny, Sales and Procurement Specialist at Erie Bronze & Aluminum about "Manufacturing careers".

Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec, a company offering ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions, and highlights the Industrial Talk Podcast's focus on industry innovations and professionals. Kayla Konieczny, from Erie Bronze, discusses her career path from the food and car industries to her current role in procurement and manufacturing. She emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and the challenges of material sourcing, particularly the volatility of prices for metals like tin and aluminum. Kayla also highlights the need for more women in manufacturing due to their attention to detail and organizational skills. The conversation concludes with a call to support programs like Penn State's METAL program to inspire the next generation of industrial leaders.

Outline
Introduction to Elevotec and Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec, highlighting their ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions.
Elevotec is praised for delivering streamlined processes, real ROI, and over 20 years of expertise.
Scott Mackenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the celebration of industry professionals.
The podcast aims to transfer industry-focused innovations and trends while highlighting key individuals.
Introduction of Kayla Konieczny and Erie Bronze
Scott Mackenzie introduces Kayla Konieczny, who is with Erie Bronze and part of the METAL program at Penn State Erie.
Kayla shares her background, mentioning her three-year tenure at Erie Bronze and her role in the program.
Kayla discusses her family's generational connection to Erie Bronze and her own career path.
Scott Mackenzie and Kayla reminisce about their experiences at Erie Bronze, including pouring aluminum and using specialized equipment.
Kayla's Career Journey and Role at Erie Bronze
Kayla describes her career journey, moving from the food industry to the car industry and eventually to Erie Bronze.
She shares her experience transitioning from a GM at Jimmy John's to an inside sales and procurement specialist at Erie Bronze.
Kayla emphasizes her quick learning abilities and fascination with how things are built.
Scott Mackenzie and Kayla discuss the importance of hands-on experience in manufacturing.
Kayla's Involvement in the METAL Program and AFS
Kayla explains her participation in the Metal program at Penn State Erie, which focuses on metallurgical engineering and trade apprenticeship.
She highlights the hands-on nature of the program and its benefits for her career development.
Kayla mentions her involvement in online courses through the American Foundry Society (AFS) and her focus on aluminum metallurgy and casting.
Scott Mackenzie and Kayla discuss the importance of practical experience in manufacturing.
Kayla's Role in Procurement and Material Sourcing
Kayla describes her responsibilities in sourcing materials and handling logistics at Erie Bronze.
She explains the process of weekly alloy pricing and the impact of market fluctuations on material costs.
Kayla discusses the challenges of sourcing specific alloys, especially for defense and military projects.
Scott Mackenzie and Kayla delve into the dynamics of material procurement, including the role of ingot makers and the impact of energy costs.
Challenges and Opportunities in Material Procurement
Kayla shares her experiences with material procurement, including the volatility of prices and the need for strategic sourcing.
She discusses the importance of understanding market trends and the impact of global events on material availability.
Kayla highlights the role of international suppliers and the challenges of managing costs and logistics.
Scott Mackenzie and Kayla explore the potential for new sources of supply and the importance of building relationships with suppliers.
Kayla's Future Career Goals and Industry Insights
Kayla expresses her desire to continue learning and exploring different aspects of manufacturing at Erie Bronze.
She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the support she receives from experienced colleagues.
Kayla discusses the need for more women in the manufacturing industry and the unique contributions they bring.
Scott Mackenzie and Kayla highlight the importance of inspiring the next generation of industrial leaders and the role of programs like Metal in achieving this goal.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

KAYLA KONIECZNY'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
METAL Website: https://www.metalforamerica.org/
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylakon/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/eriebronze/
Company Website: https://eriebronze.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Bill Kaewert, Strategic Advisor/Board Member with Stored Energy Systems about "Data Centers and DC Power Solutions".

Bill Kaewert, a veteran of the power generation industry, discussed the challenges and innovations in maintaining electric power at the PowerGen conference in San Antonio. He highlighted the significant load growth due to hyperscale data centers, AI, population growth, and electrification, which has led to a 80-gigawatt reduction in dispatchable energy over the past decade. Kaewert emphasized the role of data centers in providing dispatchable power, noting they have 100 gigawatts of generators. He advocated for decentralized energy solutions, including storage and on-site generation, to address these challenges and suggested that individual and commercial entities should invest in their own power assets to mitigate rising electric bills.

Outline
Introduction and Overview of PowerGen Conference
Scott introduces the episode of Industrial Talk, sponsored by the Propane Education and Research Council, highlighting their commitment to safety training and innovative propane-powered technology.
Scott thanks listeners for their support and introduces the PowerGen conference in San Antonio, encouraging listeners to attend in 2027.
Scott introduces Bill Kaewert, a power generation industry professional, and mentions his height as a joke.
Bill Kaewert's Background and Role at PowerGen
Bill Kaewert shares that he has been attending PowerGen for over 20 years and works for a manufacturing company specializing in power electronics.
Bill discusses the primary reason for his attendance at PowerGen: the increasing demand for electric power due to load growth, hyperscale data centers, AI data centers, population growth, and electrification of transportation.
He highlights the issue of retiring dispatchable generation while load growth continues, emphasizing the importance of maintaining uninterruptible electric power.
Bill mentions his role at Stored Energy Systems LLC, which manufactures power electronics for critical power applications in hospitals, data centers, and government facilities.
Challenges in Maintaining Electric Power
Bill explains the challenges of maintaining electric power with the increasing demand and the retirement of dispatchable generation.
He discusses the role of data centers in providing dispatchable power, noting that data centers have around 100 gigawatts of generators ready to rock and roll.
Bill emphasizes the importance of using data center generators before an outage to prevent serious problems, such as those seen in Texas during the winter storm.
He mentions the need to readdress EPA and other regulations to allow the use of standby generators before an actual outage.
Innovation and Solutions in Electric Power
Bill discusses the potential for innovation in electric power, with individuals and businesses using storage batteries and on-site generation.
He describes the concept of prosumers, who sometimes use grid power and sometimes produce their own power for export.
Bill highlights the need for experimentation and failure to find the best practices for electric power management.
He mentions the role of states as laboratories of democracy in finding solutions that work best for different geographic areas.
The Role of Utilities and Market Dynamics
Bill and Scott discuss the inefficiencies and limitations of the existing grid and the need for more dynamic and efficient management.
Bill emphasizes the importance of individual experiments and innovations in bringing your own power (BYOP) to address the challenges of the electric grid.
He mentions the Texas Senate Bill Six, which incentivizes large loads to take responsibility for financing new assets and avoid stranded assets.
Bill highlights the potential for revolutionizing electric power through BYOP and the role of states in implementing their own regulations.
The Impact of Data Centers and Electrification
Bill provides statistics from Grid Strategies LLC, showing that 35-40% of demand growth is due to population and economic growth, not data centers.
He explains that only 20-25% of the demand increase is attributable to hyperscale data centers and AI, with the rest coming from electrification of transportation and other factors.
Bill argues that data centers are unfairly blamed for rate increases, as they are easy targets and not the primary cause of the demand growth.
He advises residential and commercial customers to take charge of their electric power and invest in on-site assets to reduce or even zero out their electric bills.

BILL KAEWERT'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-kaewert/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stored-energy-systems-llc-sens-/
Company Website: https://www.sens-usa.com/

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Industrial Talk is talking to Trevor Perrott, President and CEO at Censys Technologies about "Power Line Aerial Intelligence and Insights".

The conversation highlights the importance of the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress from November 3-5, 2023, and the need for industry professionals to enhance their cybersecurity measures. Scott Mackenzie from Industrial Talk emphasizes the significance of storytelling and marketing strategies for industrial companies, urging them to leverage platforms like Industrial Talk for content amplification. Trevor Perrott from Census Technologies discusses their aerial intelligence solutions for power lines, emphasizing the use of lidar sensors and AI to improve efficiency and safety. The discussion also touches on the challenges of vegetation management, the impact of wildfires on insurance rates, and the potential for data-driven risk mitigation in the utility sector.

Outline
Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress Announcement
Scott introduces the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress, emphasizing its importance for cybersecurity professionals.
The event is scheduled for November 3-5 in Barcelona, with Scott planning to attend and broadcast.
Scott highlights the opportunity to network with top cybersecurity professionals from around the world.
Contact information and details about the event are available on Industrial Talk.
Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott thanks listeners for their support and celebrates industry professionals solving daily problems.
Scott shares personal experiences as a lineman, drawing parallels to modern aerial intelligence technology.
The conversation sets the stage for discussing aerial intelligence and its impact on the industry.
Importance of Storytelling in Industry
Scott emphasizes the necessity of telling one's story consistently and authentically.
The conversation highlights the need for a strategic approach to storytelling, involving human interaction rather than AI-generated content.
Scott encourages companies to leverage platforms like Industrial Talk for marketing and content generation.
The discussion includes the importance of amplifying messages and the challenges of maintaining a strong social presence.
Introduction of Trevor and Census Technologies
Scott introduces Trevor from Census Technologies, focusing on aerial intelligence for power lines.
Trevor shares his background, including his fascination with aviation and robotics.
Census Technologies uses drones to collect high-resolution data for asset intelligence, including power lines, roads, and beaches.
The conversation touches on the importance of data-driven decision-making in the industry.
Challenges in the Power Line Industry
Scott and Trevor discuss the challenges of finding and retaining linemen in the industry.
Trevor explains the use of lidar sensors and AI to create digital twins of power lines and assess vegetation encroachment.
The conversation highlights the need for customized software solutions to meet the specific needs of different utility companies.
Trevor shares insights into the economic impact of wildfires and the role of data in mitigating risks.
Innovations in Asset Intelligence
Trevor discusses the potential for using drone data to identify and address wildfire risks, potentially reducing insurance costs for utilities.
The conversation explores the future of asset intelligence, including the integration of satellite data and drone data.
Trevor emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation and the potential for new use cases in the industry.
The discussion touches on the challenges of maintaining accurate GIS data and the role of human validation in the process.
Future of Asset Intelligence and Grid Modernization
Trevor shares his vision for the future of asset intelligence, including the potential for comprehensive data collection and analysis.
The conversation highlights the importance of grid modernization and the role of data in driving efficiency and reducing costs.
Trevor discusses the potential for using drone data to address a wide range of industry challenges, from vegetation management to infrastructure maintenance.
The discussion concludes with a focus on the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving industry success.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

TREVOR PERROTT'S CONTACT INFORMATION:

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-perrott-211234b0/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/censystech/

Company Website: https://censystech.com/

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