Abstract: A hook lock and method are provided for retaining a workpiece on a hook of an industrial rack. The hook includes a shank having a cross-sectional width, defining a bend for receiving the workpiece thereon, and terminating at a terminal end. The hook lock includes a block having a passageway extending along an axis between first and second outer surfaces of the block. The passageway has a cross-sectional width less than or equal to the cross-sectional width of the shank. In operation, the hook is inserted through the workpiece, and thereafter, through the passageway in the block such that the block is frictionally retained on the shank of the hook. The block prevents the workpiece from being disengaged from the hook as the workpiece is transported along a line.

Abstract: A vent plug and method are provide for isolating a feature of a part. The vent plug includes a plug receivable in an opening in the part to form an airtight seal between the plug and the surface of the part. A stem is receivable in a bore through the plug. The stem includes a cap and a collar. The cap has a sealing surface extending radially from an outer surface of the stem and engageable with a first surface of the plug such that sealing surface overlaps a vent hole extending through the plug. The collar extends radially from the outer surface of the stem and captures the plug between the collar and the cap.

Abstract: A masking plug is provided for masking a hole in a part during a finishing operation. The masking plug includes an elongated shaft a first end terminating at a terminal surface and a second end. An outer surface of the shaft has external threads adjacent the first end thereof adapted for receipt in the hole. An enlarged body has a first end operatively connected to the shaft and a second operatively connected to a head. The diameter of the body is greater than the diameter of the shaft. The head has a polygonal configuration and is adapted for forming a mating relationship with a tool. The terminal surface of the shaft includes a hollow cavity formed therein which is configured to urge the outer surface of shaft radially outward in response to a pressure buildup in the cavity during the finishing operation so as to maintain the shaft in hole.

Abstract: A masking plug and method are provided for masking a hole in a part during a finishing operation. The masking plug includes an elongated shaft having a first end terminating at a terminal surface and a second end. An outer surface of the shaft has external threads adjacent the first end thereof adapted for receipt in the hole. An enlarged body has a first end operatively connected to the shaft and a second operatively connected to a head. The diameter of the body is greater than the diameter of the shaft. The head has a polygonal configuration and is adapted for forming a mating relationship with a tool. The terminal surface of the shaft includes a hollow cavity formed therein which is configured to urge the outer surface of shaft radially outward in response to a pressure buildup in the cavity during the finishing operation so as to maintain the shaft in hole.