PRODUCTS FINISHING — pfonline.com
21
MAKING PLATING LINES NEW AGAIN
have a controller that enables us to really use the line in
the sequence we want to use," Rowe says. "The system has
tremendous flexibility."
The biggest plus for Monroe, Rowe says, is that numerous
plating barrel designs are used for flexibility. While standard
barrels can hold a maximum of 180 pounds and can run parts
as small as 0.125 inch in diameter, the system's mini-barrels
are used for small volume parts. He says split barrels are used
for running different parts within the same barrel.
Monroe is currently running clear and yellow chromates on
the new zinc line, as well as an organic sealer. Rowe says that,
if required, the parts can also be baked for hydrogen embrit-
tlement in a thermocouple controlled oven before going to the
final chromate operation.
"There's a large amount of business in upstate New York,
such as in fasteners and in small machined parts," he says.
"Our business requires quick turnaround so we are now
prepared to support this demand with our increased capacity."
Overall, Rowe says buying the line used provided cost-
savings, but he cautions other shop owners to perform their
due diligence, and to certainly have experts like those at PKG
to advise on the line.
"Steve and I looked very closely at this line, and I would
suggest to anyone to look at maintenance records and
history to see the quality of what you are buying," he says.
"There are still a lot of unknowns, but it's not that much
different from buying a car. You better look at it closely. The
unknowns can be costly."
Pontarelli says that buying used equipment is not a bad idea,
but only after having someone thoroughly evaluate the system
before writing the check to buy it.
"A lot of customers get really excited when hearing about a
plating line shutting down and they think they can get a good
deal on it, or the former owners tell them they can have what
they want from their line," Pontarelli says. "Beware, because
there's probably a reason why they want to get rid of the line,
or are giving it away."
For information on Monroe Plating, visit monroeplating.com.
For information on PKG Equipment, visit pkgequipment.com.
Better Plating through Automation
A look at the current state of electroplating monitoring
and control systems.
short.pfonline.com/automation
Parker Boiler Co.
5930 Bandini Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90040
Never a Compromise for Quality or safety
Tel: (323) 727-9800
Fax: (323) 722-2848
sales@parkerboiler.com
www.parkerboiler.com
It's Time for You to...
-
Save Money
-
Improve Efficiency
-
Reduce Operating Costs
-
Lower Utility Bills
It's Time for Your New...
-
Thermal Fluid Heater
-
Steam Boiler
-
Medium Temp Process Heaters