Masking parts for vibratory tumbling.

[Vywr]

I'm rebuilding a ratchet wrench right now, and I want to get an even surface finish before applying a phosphate conversion coating ('Parkerizing'). I don't have sandblasting equipment so, I;'m using a vibratory tumbler, but I don't want grit to get caught in the ball detent. In the past, I've used electrical tape for masking, but it's not really the right choice for just blocking off the ball detent. Has anyone used some sort of liquid mask or glue for a similar application? If so, what worked well? I need it to ensure any glue or sealant doesn't actually leak into the ball detent, so I'm weary of trying any old glue in case it ruins it.

 

[BORING HOP YARD]

You could soda blast it using this blaster, it's been awhile since I purchased soda but it was cheap.

18 oz. Portable Abrasive Blaster Gun Kit

Amazing deals on this 18Oz Portable Abrasive Blaster Gun Kit at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[Firebrick43]

I'm rebuilding a ratchet wrench right now, and I want to get an even surface finish before applying a phosphate conversion coating ('Parkerizing'). I don't have sandblasting equipment so, I;'m using a vibratory tumbler, but I don't want grit to get caught in the ball detent. In the past, I've used electrical tape for masking, but it's not really the right choice for just blocking off the ball detent. Has anyone used some sort of liquid mask or glue for a similar application? If so, what worked well? I need it to ensure any glue or sealant doesn't actually leak into the ball detent, so I'm weary of trying any old glue in case it ruins it.

A dab of hot cheap hot glue will pull off decently easy if applied just as it is able to be pushed out the gun and wont get down inside things. It can be trimmed with a scalpel to size easily and its rubbery consisentcy will resist sand blasting. I would assume it will do just as well in a vibratory tumbler is your using some kind of fine grit and no the large debur triangles?

 

[Jacko264]

Or tippex my do it the type used on paper

 

[1redTA]

I like the hot glue, I was going to say a hardening gasket maker

 

[Vywr]

The hot glue seems like a good idea... idk why I didn't think of that. The de-rusting solution I was using ended up making a decently even finish so I just tried it without the tumbling and it seemed to work well, but I will try hot glue next time.

 

[Beerhippie]

Any resist for sandblasting should work just fine for that. You can buy it as tape or liquid. It peels off easily when done.

 

[rustyzman]

A dab of RTV would probably suffice as well. Not terrible to remove afterwards.
Just a thought

 

[INSP380]

I’ve done a LOT of tumbling thru the years, wrap it in shim stock and add a hose clamp. Tight. Only thing getting in is water. Blow gun and some WD after. Good Luck.

Steve