The solution designed by Awafast to protect the threads of inserts during painting and welding processes

Originally published by Awafast, our Italian partner, this case study highlights the use of Tectorius® Tec-Flon™ 6000 in an automotive application. The English version below has been translated from the original Italian article for informational purposes.

Original article: https://www.awafast.com/casi-di-studio-fasteners/protezione-filettatura-automotive/

© Awafast. All rights reserved. Original case study and content by Awafast.

In the automotive sector, precision and component protection are essential to ensure optimal and long-lasting performance. A concrete example of this requirement arose when Awafast was tasked by a customer with developing a specific suspension fastening component with high mechanical resistance. The primary objective was to protect the component's internal M16 thread during two phases of the production process:

• The painting
• Welding

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Objective: Thread protection

During the painting and welding processes , components are coated with enamel and subjected to high temperatures. In this context, protecting small, delicate areas such as threads presents a challenge.

Awafast's goal was to find a solution that would preserve the integrity of the fastener's thread during these phases , preventing damage that could compromise the functionality of the fastener.

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The Solution: Tec-Flon™ 6000

The answer to this need was found in the use of Tec-Flon™ 6000 , an innovative product designed by Tectorius® to protect delicate surfaces during industrial processing. Tec-Flon™ 6000 is a highly resistant protective film that, once applied to the thread, acts as a barrier , preventing direct contact of paint and welding spatter with the threaded surface.

The main advantage of this innovative product lies in its ability to adhere perfectly to the thread, creating a protective layer that does not interfere with the subsequent tightening phases of the fastener. In this case, thanks to Tec-Flon™ 6000, the M16 thread of the component was completely protected , ensuring that there was no paint residue or structural damage to the part.

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Tec-Flon™ 6000: What It Is and Why It's the Best Choice

Tec-Flon™ 6000 is a high-performance product from the Tectorius® line, developed to solve the problems encountered in industrial and automotive contexts.

This is an advanced protective film, specifically formulated to protect sensitive surfaces during painting, sandblasting, welding and other finishing processes.

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It offers numerous advantages:

1. High thermal and chemical resistance: resistant to high temperatures, it does not degrade or dissolve during the painting process, even at elevated temperatures. Its formula is designed to withstand aggressive environments without compromising the protected surface.
2. Ease of removal: One of the main challenges in using temporary thread protectors is removing the protective material without damaging the component. Tec-Flon™ 6000 is designed to be progressively removed during subsequent tightening operations.
3. High adhesion and compatibility: It adheres extremely efficiently to the component surface without compromising the thread geometry. It is compatible with a wide range of metals and materials, making it suitable for automotive and industrial applications.

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Why Tec-Flon™ 6000 and not alternatives like NYCOTE®?

When it comes to protecting components during painting and welding processes , there are several solutions on the market, one of the most popular is NYCOTE® .

Tec-Flon™ 6000 stands out for two key advantages: its PFAS-free nature and its speed of application. Tec-Flon™ 6000 is a water-based paint that does not contain perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), unlike many other similar products, including some NYCOTE® formulations. The absence of PFAS makes Tec-Flon™ 6000 an environmentally friendly and safe choice , reducing environmental impact and health risks during handling and application.

Furthermore, its composition allows for quick and easy application , without the need for complex procedures or specialized equipment. This not only simplifies the production process but also reduces waiting times, ensuring savings and greater operational efficiency.

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The Concrete Results

Thanks to the use of Tec-Flon™ 6000, Awafast was able to successfully solve the challenge of providing a customized component for the Customer, which guaranteed high mechanical resistance, fixing quality and durability over time.