If you’re a manufacturer, you probably already know that finding reliable partners who prioritize quality over cutting corners is increasingly challenging. For outdoor electrical equipment, the stakes are even higher – subpar finishing can lead to premature failure, costly repairs, and potential safety hazards. 

When your products need to withstand everything from Florida humidity to Chicago winters, the finishing process becomes crucial to long-term success.

At Pedoc Power Solutions, we’ve spent over 15 years perfecting our outdoor power pedestals. A crucial element of our success has been our strategic partnership with Commercial Finishes Corporation (CFC), our trusted powder coating partner since the 1980s through Marcres Metalwerks. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver superior outdoor power solutions. With their expertise in handling complex aerospace, medical, and military projects, CFC brings unparalleled finishing knowledge to every Pedoc pedestal they coat.

In this article, we’ll take you behind the scenes at CFC to show you why quality powder coating matters, how attention to detail makes a difference, and why choosing the right finishing partner is crucial for product longevity. You’ll learn about the intricate process of powder coating, the importance of proper material selection, and how the right finishing partner can enhance product durability and performance.

Key Highlights of Powder Coating with CFC

• Quality That Lasts: CFC’s powder-coated products have proven durability, with outdoor installations still looking good after 10-15 years of exposure to the elements.
• Precision in Process: Every piece goes through a rigorous 7-step coating process, including specialized cleaning for adhesion, masking, and temperature-controlled curing and cooling.
• High-Stakes Projects: CFC’s expertise extends beyond everyday products —they handle components for stealth ships, space equipment, and medical devices, bringing the same level of precision to Pedoc’s power pedestals.
• Zero-Compromise Approach: While other finishers might cut costs with cheaper materials, CFC strictly adheres to specifications, maintaining detailed certifications for every batch and lot number.
• Engineering Partnership: Beyond just coating, CFC provides valuable design input to ensure products are optimized for finishing, considering factors like hanging points and water drainage that many engineers might overlook.

A Legacy of Quality and Innovation

What started in 500 square feet of space has grown into a 15,000-square-foot operation that serves industries ranging from sports to aerospace. CFC’s journey began with Sam Legittino, who founded the company after an unconventional career path that took him from military service to hairstyling before finding his true calling in finishing.

“I found out I had a niche for figuring out how to do hard things easily and make more money,” Sam reflects. This problem-solving mindset has become a cornerstone of CFC’s approach to challenging projects.

The company’s growth has been guided by a simple principle that Sam still adheres to today: “I just worked many, many hours for many, many years, Saturday, Sundays, holidays.” This dedication to excellence has created a culture where quality isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a way of life.

The Art of Precision Finishing

CFC has carved out a unique position in the market by taking on projects others consider too difficult. “We do a lot of masking, a lot of aerospace, medical products, so we do a lot of jobs that other coaters would consider difficult,” explains John Klodnicki, CFC’s Vice President.

Their expertise extends to highly sensitive projects, including:

• Components for stealth ships with specialized coatings
• Space-bound equipment requiring precise specifications
• Medical equipment for MRI machines
• Critical infrastructure components
• NFL headset components
• Specialized equipment for companies like Siemens and various defense contractors

The Science Behind the Process

The powder coating process at CFC is far more complex than simply spraying powder on metal. John explains their comprehensive approach:

1. Initial Assessment: “When product comes in, we receive it, enter a job card, record the quantity on a job. We track the information, the customer’s name, the powder, the masking, the product number, any special details.”
2. Pre-treatment: “All the product, whether it’s stainless steel or aluminum, goes through our cleaners. We put on iron phosphate, and we also have an etch for aluminum that makes the powder or the paint adhere much better.”
3. Masking: Many projects require intricate masking. “We do a product called the light pipe for Siemens. It gets machined, so we sand out machining lines, then wet sand, then masking. Each part requires 57 special circles.”
4. Temperature Control: The powder coating process requires precise temperature control. “The powder oven typically runs about 350 to 400 [degrees].”

Quality Without Compromise

What sets CFC apart is their unwavering commitment to specifications and quality. “We stick to what’s on the print,” John emphasizes. “A lot of finishers, if there’s a specified material, will go the cheaper route… We’re producing what the customer wants and expects.”

This dedication to quality extends to their certification process: “We certify everything, batch numbers, lot numbers, expiration dates, everything, so we do it by the book.” This attention to detail is particularly crucial for products like Pedoc’s power pedestals, which must withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

Material Selection and Durability

For outdoor applications like Pedoc’s power pedestals, material selection is crucial. John explains: “For products that’s going to be outdoors all the time, like in the Florida environment, they usually use a zinc primer or zinc phosphate… I’ve had stuff outdoors for 10-15 years, and it still looks good.”

The company primarily uses high-quality materials from trusted suppliers:

• PPG
• Cardinal
• Tiger Drylac
• Other premium manufacturers

The Pedoc-CFC Partnership

Since 2009, CFC has been instrumental in ensuring Pedoc’s power pedestals meet the highest standards for outdoor durability. The partnership exemplifies the importance of collaboration in manufacturing excellence.

The powder coating process for our pedestals includes:

1. Thorough pre-cleaning and preparation
2. State-of-the-art washing system
3. Multiple rinse cycles
4. Precision drying
5. Careful powder application
6. Controlled curing at 350-400 degrees
7. Cooling and quality inspection

Innovation Through Collaboration

The partnership has led to continuous improvements in our processes. For example, when CFC identified challenges with surface preparation, we implemented additional cleaning procedures at our facility. “Now they’re pre-wiping the parts because they couldn’t believe how much stuff was on there before they sent it to us,” John notes. This kind of feedback loop and willingness to adapt has strengthened both our products and our partnership.

Engineering Considerations

One valuable aspect of working with CFC is their input during the design phase. As John explains, “A lot of times engineers, when they’re developing the product, they don’t take into consideration that the part has to be painted, and how they’re going to fixture it.” CFC’s experience helps ensure that products are designed with finishing in mind, considering factors like:

• Proper hanging points
• Water drainage
• Masking requirements
• Surface preparation needs

Looking to the Future

As we continue to grow and innovate, partnerships with companies like CFC remain crucial to our success. Their commitment to quality, willingness to tackle challenging projects, and dedication to continuous improvement mirror our own values at Pedoc Power Solutions.

John has noticed “a sales increase” in Pedoc products over the years, which he attributes to the consistent quality and durability of the finished products. This growth reinforces the importance of choosing partners who share your commitment to excellence.

Made in America: A Shared Commitment

Both Pedoc and CFC share a strong commitment to American manufacturing. This commitment goes beyond patriotism—it ensures better quality control, easier communication, and more reliable service. As Sam and John have demonstrated throughout their careers, American manufacturing excellence is built on attention to detail, willingness to tackle challenges, and unwavering commitment to quality.

About Pedoc Power Solutions

Pedoc Power Solutions is a family-owned American manufacturer specializing in landscape power pedestals. As a division of Marcres Metalwerks, the company benefits from over 45 years of expertise in metal fabrication. Located in Mount Prospect, Illinois, we specialize in creating durable, high-quality outdoor power solutions that protect electrical components in challenging environments. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has driven steady business growth primarily through repeat business and customer referrals. Under the leadership of owner and president Marlene Palmer, we continue to invest in cutting-edge technology and people, maintaining our position as an industry leader in outdoor power solutions.

About Commercial Finishes Corporation (CFC)

From humble beginnings in a 500-square-foot facility to today’s 15,000-square-foot operation, Commercial Finishes has been setting the standard for quality powder coating and liquid painting since 1972. Founded by Sam Legittino and now led alongside his son John, CFC specializes in handling complex finishing projects that others consider too difficult. Their expertise spans multiple industries including aerospace, medical, defense, and infrastructure. Located in the Chicago area, CFC’s commitment to quality and precision has made them a trusted partner for companies requiring the highest standards in finishing services.

Discover how Pedoc’s commitment to quality, from materials to finishing, can provide you with the most reliable outdoor power solutions for your project. Contact the Pedoc team today at (888) 518-0330 or email us at info@pedocpower.com to discuss your specific needs. CFC may be reached at (847) 981-9222.