Issues with powdercoat masking
Issues with powdercoat masking
(OP)
We are currently machining aluminum and steel parts used in dental chair assemblies. After machining, many of the parts are sent to be powdercoated. My biggest problem is related to paint getting in the tapped holes. Our paint supplier has used various types of masking plugs with decent success, but are still getting paint in some of the holes. If there is paint in the holes, they are deemed "undersized" by our customer because the thread gage will not go (nor will the fastener used during assembly). If we chase the threads using a tap, the holes end up "oversized", not to mention the time it takes to check and attempt to fix each part. Does anyone have any suggestions in eliminating our issue?





RE: Issues with powdercoat masking
Is there any way you can place bolts into the threads while it is being powder coated?
RE: Issues with powdercoat masking
We carry them (see here: www.viadon.com), but most any other powder coating masking supplier should carry them also. Hope that helps.
RE: Issues with powdercoat masking
RE: Issues with powdercoat masking
As far as the flangeless plugs are concerned (for blind holes), they do have a very shallow taper. What helps is after the powder is cured is to rub the cured powder off the silicone mask; this prepares it for the next part (whether using standard tapered plugs, pull plugs or flangeless plugs).
Any other questions, feel free to ask - hope that helps. Check out our website that I listed in the previous post, you will find lots of options for masking that may give you some good ideas to help you out.
RE: Issues with powdercoat masking