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-----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 MeslohDesigner - 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
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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 IHAALuke Engineering & Mfg. Co. Inc.
Wadsworth, Ohio
June 2, 2010
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