METALCON Announces Top Products Award Winners

Exhibitors at the only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction were invited to nominate their standout products for the prestigious METALCON Top Products Award. The top three award-winning products were unveiled at this year’s show in Atlanta. Winners were determined via an electronic voting process, which took place before and during the event, with more than 1,100 votes from industry professionals.

The 2024 METALCON Top Products Award winners are:

First Place

Company: PPG

Product: PPG DuraNEXT™ Energy Curable Coil Coatings

Unlike traditional coil coating systems that require very high temperatures to drive the curing process, PPG DuraNEXT™ energy curable coatings use an electron beam or ultra-violet energy to convert a liquid coating into a fully cured solid finish in seconds, without any significant loss of thickness or weight. This family of backers, primers, basecoats and topcoats represents an alternative to traditional coil coating systems. 

“We are thrilled to be recognized as the number one top product in the metal construction industry,” said Craig Smith, PPG Global Technical Platform Director, Coil Coatings. “Our innovative technologies boost productivity by eliminating the need for substrate heating and reducing curing time, as there’s no waiting for solvents to evaporate. Additionally, our products are engineered to maintain the finish durability and aesthetic appeal of coil-coated products, offering exceptional hardness, scratch and chemical resistance, and high flexibility.”

Second Place

Company: Malco Tools, Inc.

Product: Power-Assisted Seamer/Cutter

Malco’s power-assisted seamer and cutter is ideal for effortless seaming, cutting and removal of 1″ or 1.5″ single and/or double mechanical lock standing-seam panels efficiently. The new seamer enables the mechanical lock of standing seam panels in less time while enhancing safety and expanding the range of compatible panel profiles. The power-assisted cutter cuts below the mechanical lock and through clips with precision, allowing for quick and safe removal of standing seam panels without damaging the cutting discs.

“Malco’s power-assisted seamers and cutters are the latest innovative, high-quality additions to our metal roofing portfolio, representing the fastest seaming and cutting machines on the market,” said Shane Norman, senior product manager at Malco. “We are honored to be recognized as a top product in the industry. These tools continue our legacy of innovation that combines state-of-the-art design with rigorous standards that have always been the hallmark of Malco products.”

Third Place

Company: MetalForming, LLC

Product: Stolarczyk Coil Processing Solution

The all-new Stolarczyk Coil Processing Solution combines advanced technology, ease of use and robust performance in a single, comprehensive system. It features a Decoiler with a 7-roll CNC straightening system and laser-hardened rolls to eliminate coil set and ensure flat sheets, along with a 3-roll rotating film application for surface protection. The system’s Slitting-Cutting section (ST-1250) uses large-diameter slitting knives (over 8”) and a digital positioning system for precise cuts, while heavy-duty guillotine shears with 4-sided blades handle length cuts. The Stacking Table automatically lowers as stack height increases, with adjustable side and end stops for alignment. The system smoothly transitions into a high-speed Tension Stand & Recoiler at up to 150 feet per minute with easy one-person operation.

"Each year, we look forward to discovering the latest technologies and innovations presented at METALCON,” said Stephen Gosk, MetalForming President & CEO. “This year, we are proud to be recognized for contributing one of the standout solutions. As a leader in coil processing, our newest Stolarczyk solution sets the standard for performance and establishes an industry-leading footprint."

To be eligible for consideration, products must have been introduced to the market after Jan. 1, 2023, and its manufacturer a participating exhibitor at METALCON 2024.

“Following one of our most successful and well-attended shows in Atlanta, we're excited to announce our top three product award winners," said Judy Geller, METALCON Vice President of Tradeshows. "We can’t wait to see what next year’s showcase in Las Vegas will bring, with even more groundbreaking products and innovative technologies on display."