Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Finishing aluminum for use as a pneumatic cylinder

I fabricate animatronics for private clients and theme parks. Due to the physical size of a current project, I need to manufacture my own pneumatic cylinders. I can ream or bore the ID but I would like to guarantee a better seal on the o-rings by having a very smooth, almost polished surface for them to ride on. I am also going to flash hard anodize the cylinders and then teflon coat them. Suggestions?

David Mesloh
Designer - Los Angeles, California, USA
May 29, 2010

Hi, David. I don't have experience with this application, so it's only book knowledge, but I think electroless nickel plating of the I.D. of the cylinder would be a better idea than hard coating.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
June 1, 2010

Hardcoat Anodize is a common treatment for pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders. Begin by honing the bare aluminum, apply a thick hardcoat, hone again, and PTFE treat. Very smooth finishes are possible.

Chris Jurey, Past-President IHAA
Luke Engineering & Mfg. Co. Inc.

Wadsworth, Ohio

June 2, 2010

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: