Productivity of Carbon Steel and Low Alloy Steel Pieces During Spraying
Spraying, a coldworking process for forming metal parts, is creating lasting positive ripple effects in the manufacturing industry. Used to abrade, shape, polish, or smooth the surfaces of various components, spraying is a staple among leading manufacturers across the globe. Despite the many advantages of using this process, it isn’t without its share of hiccups. One such hiccup is the productivity of carbon steel and low-alloy steel pieces during the spraying process.
When spraying carbon or low-alloy steel pieces, the first and most important factor to consider is the surface treatment. The surface treatment directly affects the yields of the piece, meaning that improper treatments can often lead to failing parts. In order to maximize the number of successful pieces, there are several steps to consider before, during and after the spraying process. The most important are listed below.
1. Cleaning: Cleaning the piece is essential to ensure that the part is free of any debris or contaminants. This step removes any particulate matter that could interfere with the bonding of the surface treatment and decrease yields.
2. Preparation: Preparation of the piece varies depending on the alloy and end use. Rust inhibitors, sealants and primers can be used to ensure that the surface is ready for the spraying process.
3. Spraying: Once the piece is properly prepped, it can be sprayed with a selected spray material. Choosing the right spray material for an application is critical for both maintenance and costs in the long run.
4. Cooling: The cooled piece is then ready for post-spray treatments. Depending on the alloy and end use, this could include anodizing, painting, polishing, etc. These treatments not only protect the substrate from wear and tear, but also give the part an aesthetically pleasing finish.
5. Quality Control: Quality control is the most important factor in controlling the yields of the pieces being sprayed. It is necessary to inspect the pieces immediately following the spraying process in order to ensure that no defects exist and that each piece meets the specified quality standards.
When planning a spraying process, it is important to understand that carbon steel and low-alloy steel pieces are sensitive to the surface treatment process. If the proper steps are taken in prepping and spraying the piece, yields can be greatly improved. Quality control inspection should also be implemented to ensure that each piece is defect-free and meets the desired specifications. Taking the time to evaluate the above factors will help ensure that your carbon steel and low-alloy steel pieces are of the highest quality and yield the maximum number of successful pieces.
