Dip Spin Coating for Fluoropolymers, Thermoplastics, and Zinc Flake Coatings on Industrial Fasteners and Components

Performance Polymers and Coatings utilizes Dip Spin Processing for a variety of Polymers and Zinc Flake Coatings in applications of functional coatings to a broad range of chemical processing, medical, scientific, automotive and industrial parts and fasteners.

Dip spin coating is a widely used method for applying fluoropolymer, thermoplastic, and zinc flake coatings to industrial fasteners and components. This process involves dipping the components into a liquid or powdered coating material, then spinning them to remove excess material and ensure uniform coverage.

Dip spin coating is ideal for high-volume production, providing corrosion resistance, wear protection, chemical resistance, and improved lubricity

Advantages of Dip Spin Coating:

Uniform Coating on Complex Geometries – Ensures full coverage of small, intricate, and threaded parts.
✔ Cost-Effective for High-Volume Production – Efficient process with minimal material waste.
✔ Excellent Corrosion & Chemical Resistance – Enhances durability in harsh environments.
✔ Consistent Coating Thickness – Reduces variations in performance and ensures even application.
✔ Enhanced Lubricity & Friction Control – Ideal for fasteners, preventing galling and seizing.

1.Fluoropolymer Dip Spin Coating

Fluoropolymer coatings, such as PTFE (Teflon®), PFA, FEP, and ETFE, provide low friction, chemical resistance, and high thermal stability. These coatings are commonly used in fasteners and industrial components to reduce friction, prevent galling, and enhance chemical resistance.

Industries & Applications:

Aerospace & Automotive: Coating fasteners, bolts, and connectors to prevent wear and corrosion.
Chemical Processing: Protecting screws, nuts, and pipes from aggressive chemicals.
Medical Equipment: Coating surgical tools and fasteners for biocompatibility.
Food Processing: Creating non-stick and corrosion-resistant surfaces.

Fluoropolymer Dip Spin Coating Process:

Surface Preparation: Cleaning and sandblasting for improved adhesion.
Dip Coating: Components are submerged in a fluoropolymer-based liquid coating.
Spin Process: Excess coating is removed by spinning the components at high speed.
Curing: The coated parts are cured at high temperatures (typically 400-750°F or 200-400°C).

Final Inspection: Ensuring uniform coverage and adhesion.

Industries & Applications:

Automotive: Used on screws, bolts, and clips for vibration resistance and corrosion protection.
Marine & Offshore: Coating fasteners and metal components to withstand saltwater exposure.
Electronics & Electrical: Insulating and protecting connectors and metal enclosures.
Construction: Coating fasteners for weatherproofing and UV resistance.

Thermoplastic Dip Spin Coating Process:

Surface Preparation: Cleaning and abrasive blasting for optimal adhesion.
Dip Coating: Fasteners are immersed in a thermoplastic powder suspension.
Spin Removal: Excess powder is spun off before melting.
Fusion & Cooling: The coated parts are heated to fuse the thermoplastic, then cooled for a smooth finish.

Thermoplastic Spray Coating Process

Surface Preparation: Sandblasting or chemical pre-treatment ensures adhesion.
Preheating (Optional): Some thermoplastics require preheating of the substrate.
Spray Application: Applied using electrostatic spray, flame spray, or hot gas spray techniques.
Fusion & Cooling: The coating melts and bonds to the substrate, then solidifies into a protective layer.

Key Benefits of Thermoplastic Spray Coatings

✔ High Impact & Abrasion Resistance – Extends component lifespan.
✔ Corrosion & Chemical Resistance – Suitable for aggressive industrial environments.
✔ Flexibility & Toughness – Withstands mechanical stress and deformation.
✔ UV & Weather Resistance – Ideal for outdoor applications.

Comparison: Fluoropolymer vs. Thermoplastic Spray Coatings

Property	Fluoropolymers (PTFE, PFA, FEP)	Thermoplastics (Nylon, Polyethylene)
Temperature Resistance	High (up to 500°F/260°C)	Moderate (up to 250°F/120°C)
Chemical Resistance	Excellent	Good
Non-Stick Properties	Exceptional	Limited
Wear Resistance	Moderate	High
Flexibility & Impact Resistance	Low	High
Application Cost	Higher	Moderate

Spray coating of fluoropolymers and thermoplastics is crucial for enhancing the performance of industrial components and substrates. Fluoropolymer coatings provide superior chemical resistance, low friction, and high-temperature stability, making them ideal for extreme environments. Thermoplastic coatings, on the other hand, offer durability, impact resistance, and cost-effectiveness for applications requiring mechanical toughness.