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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Oscillators or Reciprocators?

I am looking to put 2 new booths in and have come across the decision of choosing between reciprocators and oscillators. We are coating aluminum extrusions on one line and 316SUS woven mesh on the second line. Both lines run at 2 meters per minute. Company N is swearing by oscillators and feel they are the best for my lines. They have given me the option of choosing either, but strongly feel oscillators are better. Company G insist that oscillators are okay for my mesh but won't work for aluminum. I have only used reciprocators before and know very little about oscillators. I have chosen Company N for my new booths, due to their service commitment but am Not sure whether to go with oscillators or reciprocators. Any advice or opinions would sure be appreciated.

Dave Edlin
powder coater - Chiang Mai, Thailand
2004

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Why would company G think that oscillators won't work for aluminum? The gun is what is applying the powder. I've used both and wouldn't turn down the chance to use either one. The reciprocators give you better action because of the straight up and down motion, but can be troublesome if you get cheap equipment. The guns on the oscillators take more care when adjusting, but work perfectly fine.

Sheldon Taylor
supply chain electronics
Wake Forest, North Carolina
2004