problems with acid in rack holes

[blewis999]

Heres my current problem.

I've been anodizing the same type parts. They are all racked the same way using alum all thread in blind holes on the part.

Problem is, lately I've been getting acid wash out around the holes.

I am spray rinsing, then rinsing in a bucket of disstilled water, trying to hold the parts sideways to drain, but to no avail. anyone have any suggestions?

This is not killing my production since the parts don't have any color req. but it is annoying.

[acidrain]

Are you making your own all-thread? If not, it sounds expensive. I would make my own connectors from Ti rod, and only thread the end a few threads so that when you run it in, the shoulder seals as opposed to the all thread going to the bottom of the hole for a connection (and you have no seal). You could do the same with aluminum rod, but would only get one use out of it. If you're stripping your aluminum all thread... there's your problem. The aluminum will get smaller each time you strip, allowing acid into the threads.
What size threads are you using?

[blewis999]

Thanks Acid. As always your reply is very much appreciated.

I bought the all thread. didn't feel like it was that expensive relative to me making something.

I love the idea of a shoulder on the connector. that sounds like a winner. For now, the method I am using is just thread to the bottom as you figured. I guess I have been getting lucky, I am not stripping the allthread after each use. I just assumed since it didn't dye it prolly didn't ano either. I do ohm my parts before starting to see that I have some connection.

after running several batches yesterday, i think i was not getting all the acid off the threads above the part. then when i dye, it was running down to the connection, making it look as if it came out of the hole.

Yet another example of a newbie not rinsing well enough.

My threads are some 3/8-16 and some 6-32.

[acidrain]

The only other thing I can suggest is get a pump sprayer (make sure it's clean... no grease) and spray a steady stream into the thread areas after ano.
You can get Ti rod if you want to go with something a little more robust here: www.onlinemetals.com. The Ti rod threads easily, and is re-usable.