Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive
(Hard Chrome Plating)

by Randy Taylor, Advanced Tooling Corporation
February, 2007

Sewing Mesh Pads

Q. We currently sew our mesh pads together (frame to pad) using polypropelyne string. It rots through in a week or two and needs to be resewn. Is there a more compatible material we can use, and where can we get it?

A. I've been there before and feel your pain. You might try replacing the polypro string with a soft pliable small diameter metal wire. There are dozens of materials and sizes to choose from. Some have PVC or phosphate coatings applied for corrosion protection. Prices range from under $10 US Dollars to as much as $45.00 US Dollars. Try a carbon steel first, then maybe nickel, titanium, even Nickel-titanium (NiTinol) and as a last resort stainless until you find one that will survive for the life of your pads.

Reference McMaster-Carr catalog 113, page 3598,
www.mcmaster.com
email cle.sales@mcmaster.com
Phone number 330-995-5500