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Corrosion problem in zinc plated telescoping tubing

June 24, 2011

WE ARE A OEM MANUFACTURER OF LINEAR ACTUATORS. WE USE HRPO WELDED ROUND TUBING. OUR PRODUCT REQUIRES A 2.00" OUTER TUBE AND 1.75" INNER TUBE TO ALLOW TELESCOPING. THERE IS VERY LITTLE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE 2 SURFACES.

THE OUTER TUBE IS E-COATED WHICH DOES NOT COAT THRU THE ENTIRE LENGTH. TYPICAL TUBE LENGTHS ARE ABOUT 36" LONG. THE INNER TUBE IS ZINC ELECTROPLATED AND HAS A LACQUER SEAL.

THE PROBLEM IS THAT WE HAVE AN OUTDOOR APPLICATION WHERE PRODUCT IS STORED OUTSIDE FOR A PERIOD OF A FEW WEEKS. AFTER INSTALL THE INNER TUBE SURFACE IS ALREADY RUSTED.

WE HAVE SHIPPED THOUSANDS OF THIS TYPE PRODUCT AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM UNTIL THIS SPECIFIC CUSTOMER.

SEE PHOTO

57359

ANY SUGGESTIONS AS TO WHAT IS GOING ON??
I REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR ASSISTANCE.

THANKS IN ADVANCE.

PAUL HOLLIS
OEM - DAYTON, OHIO

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