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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Teflon Paste for plumbing fittings in EN tanks?

Can Teflon paste be used for plumbing in electroless nickel tanks? I noticed my equipment supplier used this material rather than tape.

Kevin Keating
optics - Rochester, New York
2005

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I'm not familiar with that product, but my gut feeling is that whatever the solvent is, it might be a problematic contaminant if it is actually exposed to the EN solution, i.e., if it's on threads but the pipe is in solution. If it's only on the threads and the pipe is not in the solution I wouldn't expect any problems.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2005

 
Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

For pipes outside your tank do not rely on threaded joints. No matter how well you think they are tight and sealed remember that plastics loose a great deal of their room temperature rigidity when hot. They must be welded. Pipes inside the tank are no big deal.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2005

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2005

Ted is correct. The solvent in Teflon pipe dope can effect (cause pitting) in some EN solutions and should not be used. Use plain Teflon pipe tape instead.

Ron Duncan [deceased]
- LaVergne, Tennessee
It is our sad duty to note Ron's passing on Dec. 15, 2006. A brief obituary opens Episode 13 of our Podcast.