High-Temperature Silicone Masking Plugs for Powder Coating

Learn which plug to use for fastest speed, maximum effectiveness and lowest cost

Viadon stocks a full range of high temperature silicone, high heat masking plugs that are ideal for use during powder coating. Below is a short description of the different types we carry, and we offer FREE SAMPLES of most plugs & sizes (Contact Us for details). These will easily withstand temperature up to 600F, and are available in the following configurations:

  • Standard tapered plugs - simple, effective and most often ordered plugs for simple blind and through hole masking needs.Variety of high temperature silicone masking plugs for powder coating
  • Tapered plugs with handle - just like the tapered plugs above but have handle on larger side for easier insertion/removal, especially in deeper or harder to reach holes.
  • Hollow tapered plugs - as tapered plugs get significantly larger, so does their cost due to the material required to make them. Hollow-out sections on the narrower end of the largest tapered plug sizes reduces the total volume of silicone required to manufacture the plug, while retaining its external dimensions and masking properties. Plus, these plugs are easier to press into place as they compress better. 
  • Flangeless plugs - ribbed plug design with a narrow-taper plus a handle. Uses a harder durometer for greater strength, which aids in removal/insertion. Great for threaded holes or for long, deep blind holes where a plug may 'blow out' due to superheated air during oven cure. 
  • Tapered flange plugs - have a flange at the larger end; ideal for masking a grounding area or when metal-to-metal bolt/washer contact must be preserved.
  • Multi-flange plugs - a unique design that can mask multiple hole sizes, or provide masking for chamfered areas that widen out from a narrower hole.
  • Pull plugs - created specifically for masking threaded and non-threaded holes that go all that way through a metal part, typically for lengths 1” or less. Have a handle and plug section for quick insertion to "pull" them into place and using the handle for quick plug removal.
  • Flanged pull plugs - same basic design as pull plugs above but these unique masking plugs have a flange at the end of the wider plug section. Perfect for masking lead/first threads or small chamfered areas and the entire hole length in parts 1" thick or less.
  • First thread plugs - first thread plugs are perfect for blind holes that are ½” in depth or longer. Masks the internal threads and the lead-in thread or small chamfer at opening; this eliminates having to "chase" threads after powder coating. 

We offer FREE SAMPLES of most plugs & sizes (Contact Us for details). Have questions about any of these products? Need a larger plug or a custom size/configuration? Check out the links above or the one below for each product on our website for more information and dimensions for each, or send us an email / give us a call.

Click here to see all of Viadon's plugs and caps for powder coating.

Contact us here or call at 866-534-3900.
 

Frequently Asked Questions: Silicone Masking Plugs

How do I choose the right size tapered plug?

To ensure a liquid-tight seal, choose a tapered plug where the hole diameter falls towards the smaller end up to the middle of the plug's top and bottom diameters. This allows for enough "bite" to hold the plug in place during the pressure of the spray and the heat of the oven.

 

How do I size a pull plug for through-holes?

For pull plugs, the "major diameter" of the plug should be approximately 0..020" to 0.030" (0.76mm) larger than the inner diameter (ID) of the hole. Alternatively, for smaller plugs up to 1/4" use plugs that are 2% to 5% larger in diameter than the ID of the hole to be plugged. This creates the friction-fit necessary to prevent water seepage around the edges during wash cycles or powder overspray.

 

What is the maximum temperature for these plugs?

Our high-temperature silicone plugs are rated for continuous exposure up to 600°F (315°C). They are specifically designed to withstand multiple bake cycles in standard powder coating and E-coat ovens.

 

How many times can silicone plugs be reused?

Silicone plugs are highly durable and can typically be reused a dozen to perhaps up to 50 times, depending on the bake temperature and the thickness of the powder build-up. You should replace the plug once it becomes brittle, loses its elasticity, or the coating build-up prevents a proper seal. During the re-use phase, be sure to clean the powder build up off masking plugs for best results. 

Viadon has been assisting customers with powder coating masking plugs since the year 2000. We stock these at our facility just 40 miles south of Chicago, IL and have a low $50 minimum order requirement. Call or email us today.