epoxy e-coat thread masking 1

[davej]

I am looking for a suitable material to use for masking the threads of a nut that is welded to a part that is to be epoxy e-coated. We do not want to use a silicon plug to mask the threads, but wish to have a chemical paint release agent applied by the nut manufacturer. The service doing my e-coating is concerned about contaminating their cleaning bath solutions with anything we might use. Is a suitable release agent available?

 

[CoryPad]

Thread masking is commonly done with a fluorocarbon (PTFE, etc.) material, and this will not contaminate the e-coat bath. Two suppliers for this are:

http://www.forestcitytech.com

http://www.nylok.com

 

[franklineng]

Will this also work on threads which are powder coated?

 

[CoryPad]

franklineng,

Are you asking if fluorocarbon thread masking will prevent powder coat adhesion to threaded fasteners? Yes, it can help prevent this.

 

[franklineng]

Specificy we have a small part which we manufacture which as a tapped hole. Time and time again, we are receiving this part back from powder coating with paint on the thread. One problem using a protective coating, is the part is hung through the hole as it goes through powedercoating.

 

[CoryPad]

franklineng,

I think your problems are straightforward. You should contact either of the companies I listed above. They can help you specify a thread masking compound that can minimize the problems you are having.

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[hitechron]

Use a conductive mask on your rack which will allow you to rack the part while masking the threaded hole in one operation. They're also re-usable and will take 500F temps.