Letter 26048

Alternate finish needed for blued spring clips [Illinois] 

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I currently have a rust issue with a 0.010" thick cold rolled annealed spring clip. It is natural blued after hardening. These parts are used in a chassis that is installed in a CO environment; not exposed to extreme elements. Our customers have advised these clips are rusting after they have been in the field for a period of time. I am looking for an alternative finish that will prevent this without changing the integrity of the heat treating process. Please advise your recommendation(s). Thanks in advance!

Tory Giammanco
Principal Engr. - Telecom - Rolling Meadows, IL, USA

These oxide finishes offer little if any corrosion resistance. You may need to do something more radical like zinc plating them, but since the exposure is mild you could try a water soluble wax or lacquer, or a light oiling of your blued finish first. Your local plating supplies distributor should be able to suggest such a dip.

 
Ted Mooney, P.E.
finishing.com Inc. - Brick, NJ

With Zinc plating you will have to consider hydrogen embrittlement. Wax, oil or simple dip coat paint are easy options. Ecoating is another option you can try.

Gurvin Singh Coatec India - Mohali, Punjab, India

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