Applications
The dip/spin process is ideally
suited for small parts that have contours so that the
parts can be coated in bulk to prevent adhering to each
other. Examples of such parts are: fasteners, spring
clamps, screws, bolts, motor mounts, O-rings, nails,
clips, muffler hangers, body mounts, etc.
Government regulations and product
performance requirements are causing plating processes
to be converted to coating processes. These regulations
have practically eliminated the use of chrome, lead
and other elements which are unfriendly to the environment.
In addition, component manufacturers
must adhere to more stringent specifications which provide
far higher salt spray performance and more consistent
torque tension capabilities.
The answer is dip/spinning coatings
onto parts that are pre-treated with a zinc-phosphate
coating. Hi-Tech Coatings is authorized
and license to apply a wide variety of coatings which
will improve salt spray performance requirements and
torque tension relationships. In addition, the dip/spin
process significantly reduces the problem of hydrogen
embrittlement.
The dip/spin process is a very cost
effective process since it is a bulk process. The transfer
efficiency of the coatings are upwards of 90 percent
which is far superior to spray coating. PFG currently
applies dry film lubricants, zinc rich coatings and
molydisulfides using the dip/spin process.
The Dip/Spin Process
Parts are placed on a conveyor and
then metered by weight into a 24” wire mesh basket.
The basket (full of parts) is submerged into a coating
vat. The basket is then raised out of the coating solution,
yet still remains in the vat, and spun up to 600 rpm.
The excess coating that is spun off is caught by the
paint vat and reused.
Depending upon the application,
the coating viscosity, temperature, spin velocity and
curing time can be varied to provide the desired mil
thickness and consistent repeatability. Once the process
is developed, a specific process control data sheet
can be assigned to the specific part to insure proven
predictable performance.
The dip/spin process is a three
step process for one coat and a five step process for
two coats:
- Cleaning and pre-treatment
- Apply coating (1st Coat)
- Cure oven
- Apply coating (2nd Coat, if necessary)
- Cure oven
Dip / Spin Operations
| Line 1 |
Warren, Michigan |
Spring Tool Model 24 |
| Line 2 & 3 |
Warren, Michigan |
Spring Tool Model 10 |
| Line 4 |
Chihuahua, Mexico |
Spring Tool Model 24 |
| Line 5 |
Queretaro, Mexico |
Spring Tool Model 16 |
| Line 6 |
Queretaro, Mexico |
Spring Tool Model 24 |
|
)
)
)