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Applying gauge lines on a hypodermic needle
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We need to mark a stainless steel tubing with stripes for marking the distances. We want to know which method could be the best and least expensive. And with what kind of machinery is needed.
We are a hypodermic needle factory and we want to mark a tubing with an O.D of 0.0650 inches and we want to mark the tubing a distance of 1 centimeter each one the total distance of the needle is 9 cm with the first mark on the first centimeter. The width of the mark of 1 millimeters.
Fernando Rodriguez San Miguelengineer - Mexico city, D.F., Mexico
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It depends on what surface finish you want on the markings. Maybe you cannot use paints. So, you can mask with 9 mm wide vinyl tape leaving 1 mm openings and sand blast them. Another way would be to grind them very lightly with a 1 mm thick cutting disk. If the needles are rotated, both methods will leave a circular mark. A small suitable turning device can be purchased for a few dollars.
Guillermo MarrufoMonterrey, NL, Mexico