Silicone contamination: a hidden challenge in industrial vernishing
In industrial vernishing processes, silicone contamination is one of the most common causes of surface defects. Even trace amounts of silicone can lead to “fish eyes” or “orange skin” effect— tiny circular craters where paint pulls away from the centre immediately after spraying. Once silicone reaches a painted surface, it’s almost impossible to remove without resorting to harsh chemical treatments that damage the coating itself.
Since air compression systems are often used to spray paints, every component in the line — including valves — must be silicone-free to prevent contamination. For this reason, many industrial facilities require certified silicone-free components throughout their pneumatic systems. Bonomi Industries plays a key role in this area by manufacturing and supplying high-quality silicone-free ball valves, ensuring that industrial painting lines remain free from contamination and maintain consistent product quality.
Why ball valves matter in vernishing systems
While ball valves are not directly involved in the vernishing process itself, they play a crucial role within compressed air systems used to deliver paint or operate equipment. Any residual silicone from lubricants or sealing materials inside a valve can migrate through the air lines and compromise the coating finish.
To maintain the integrity of painted products — especially in the automotive and industrial manufacturing sectors — using silicone-free ball valves is essential. RuB valves are specifically designed to eliminate this risk, ensuring contamination-free operations across complex air distribution systems.
The advantage of RuB silicone-free ball valves
Unlike standard valves that may use silicone-based lubricants, the entire RuB ball valve range by Bonomi Industries is completely silicone-free. Where lubrication is required — for instance, on the ball seals — non-silicone greases are employed to prevent contamination.
This attention to detail makes RuB products ideal for industries where paint quality, surface finish and reliability are critical. Whether used in car body shops, industrial coating plants, or compressed air networks, customers can be confident that their systems remain safe from silicone-related defects. This outstanding result is achieved by maintaining our whole plant free from silicone!
Reliable performance across industries
Bonomi Industries’ commitment to quality ensures that all RuB ball valves meet stringent production and inspection standards. Every valve undergoes extensive testing for sealing integrity and performance under pressure, as defined by the company’s Quality Process Guidelines.
While only a fraction of these valves are used directly in painting systems, their silicone-free composition guarantees maximum compatibility and reliability whenever surface purity matters most. For compressed air applications, customers can refer to the Pneumatic Catalogue — featuring compact mini valves and models like the S.93 downstream exhaust valve, both designed for high-performance industrial use.
If you would like to learn more or request technical assistance, contact our team for expert guidance and personalised support.