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Is there an electrically conductive e-coating?

July 9, 2013

Q. Looking at using an e-coat for an electronics cabinet, and I'd like to keep a grounding path without having to mask off areas on the frame for grounding contact, as it structure will be steel, and will rust where it is not coated. Is there an e-coat paint that is conductive? Can an additive be added to the paint to allow for electrical conductivity?

Jeff Fontana
Mechanical design engineer - Pleasanton, California, USA

A. Hi. I haven't heard of such a thing, Jeff. But if you want a conductive corrosion resistant coating, why not zinc plating?

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
July 9, 2013

July 15, 2013

A. I feared there would not be a conductive material, as the lack of conductivity of the paint as the plating builds up sets the plating thickness, but I thought I'd check. Zinc is not an option, as I would have to use electroplated Zinc, and then I run the risk of Zinc Whiskers, which may not actually be hazardous, but drives customers nuts.
Thanks

Jeff Fontana
- Pleasanton, California, USA

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