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Suggestions for start up of zinc phosphating business

I have a question regarding what I Need to have to get started in the zinc phosphating business. I.E. Testing Equipment, Cleaners,Chemicals,and number of tanks. I will be doing parts to federal specs TT-C-490 [from DLA] Method 1,3,5. Type 1. Any and all information will be very helpful.

John Kelly
Machine Shop Supervisor - Ellington, New York, USA
2004

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2004

Start with the chemicals suppliers, e.g., HeatBath, Henkel, Chemetall, etc. -- or click "Chemicals and Equipment" button below. Product bulletins recommend pretreatments, tank and heater material, rinse water purity, post-treatments, simple pH and titration analyses, etc. Use the representatives“ knowledge as to which set-ups work and what laboratories can perform salt spray and other tests. Also, try "Test equip. & Testing Svcs." below. Also, you will need to deal with local EPA and wastewater district re treatment permits and equipment. Note that a chromated rinse is required unless otherwise specified (some non-chromated sealants are available -- click "Chemicals and Equipment", you probably have Cr, Cr+6, pH, phosphate, and Zn effluent limits, and you will generate phosphate sludge. Perhaps, a chemicals rep can arrange a visit to an operating phosphating facility.

With a good idea of the maximum size of your parts and necessary equipment, perhaps have it fabbed by someone listed in "Chemicals and Equipment". Ask for a visit to a phosphating facility that they have built. On these visits, request a wastewater flowchart for help in sizing and permitting your WWT system.

It is wise to seek info in advance of startup. Good luck,

Ken Vlach [deceased]
- Goleta, California
Finishing.com honored Ken for his countless carefully researched responses. He passed away May 14, 2015.
Rest in peace, Ken. Thank you for your hard work which the finishing world, and we at finishing.com, continue to benefit from.

Ed. note: Thanks for the promotion of our advertisers, Ken. While our advertisers do not represent every possible supplier, folks, they are a pretty fair cross-section. And the old saw applies: if you like the forum, please support the people who make it possible.