Process and apparatus for the application of fluoropolymer coating to the threads of a nut

A method of applying a fluoropolymer coating to the threads of a clamping member internally threaded, said gripping a body and a threaded bore extending between opposite ends of the body to define and first openings and in the second opposed gripping member, the method comprising the steps of: moving the clamping member along a path of travel with its threaded bore in a predetermined orientation; close the first opening of the fastener; and heating the coated fluoropolymer powder to form a generally continuous fluoropolymer film on the threads of the fastener, characterized by directing an air stream carrying entrained fluoropolymer powder through the second opening and into the bore of the fastener while the first opening is closed, emanating said airstream of a nozzle located at an axially displaced position relative to the second opening of the fastener, thereby forming a coating of fluoropolymer powder on the threads of fastener.