Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
(OP)
I have a product that is made of 1 7/8" x 4" DOM carbon steel tubing with a machined bushing welded into one end. It has 3 8-32 threaded holes in it. I am looking for a way to efficiently remove the mill coating and paint from the DOM steel so that I can apply a phosphate (parkerized) finish.
I currently either sand blast them or use a wire wheel. The wire wheel sometimes misses spots, giving a poor finish, and both of them are labor intensive.
Does anyone have any suggestions such as a tumbler or vibratory bowl for this? Also, what kind of media do you recommend? I have a vibratory bowl currently loaded with crushed walnut for polishing, but that's not aggressive enough. I could make or acquire a rotary tumbler fairly easily.
Thanks,
Vince
I currently either sand blast them or use a wire wheel. The wire wheel sometimes misses spots, giving a poor finish, and both of them are labor intensive.
Does anyone have any suggestions such as a tumbler or vibratory bowl for this? Also, what kind of media do you recommend? I have a vibratory bowl currently loaded with crushed walnut for polishing, but that's not aggressive enough. I could make or acquire a rotary tumbler fairly easily.
Thanks,
Vince





RE: Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
RE: Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
One thing to consider about using a tumbler is the possibility of dinging your parts. It will take a little effort on your part to get the loading, speed, and media down.
One of the more common cleaning methods is to use a hot alkaline cleaner to remove the drawing compounds.
RE: Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
unclesyd: What kind of media do you recommend for this?
Thanks,
Vince
RE: Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
http://www.vicmetals.com/Supplies/PC_media.html
Here is one manufacturers of the media, in fact one that is sold by Victor.
http://www.vibrafinish.com/index.html
RE: Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
RE: Efficient finishing/cleaning method for DOM tubing
Also, cost of the equipment is something of an issue for me. A small blast cabinet wouldn't be very expensive.
Vince