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Q&As since 1989


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Zinc protection during mfgr process

We are looking for a coating to use during the mfgr. process of zinc pipes for the organ--at this time we use a coating of gum but it eats into the metal leaving a very unattractive color after the gum is washed off-many times these pipes are in an exposed setting and the discoloration is most unattractive--any help in this matter will be greatly appreciated thank you

Pam Lawson
pipe organ mfgr. - Highland, Illinois, USA
2003

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A chromate conversion coating would solve you problem. they are available that produce a clear bright protective coating (Very thin)or a yellow color (more protective.) However the chemicals are considered hazardous, and chromium waste must be treated before discharging into a sewer. A number of suppliers have these available.I suggest that if you don't want to become involved in the wet chemistry in your plant, contact a local electroplaters, most have this type of process in their plant.

Don Baudrand
Consultant - Poulsbo, Washington
(Don is co-author of "Plating on Plastics" [on Amazon or AbeBooks affil links]
           and "Plating ABS Plastics" [on Amazon or eBay or AbeBooks affil links])
2003