Method of applying decorative layers to a steel shaft
View Patent ↗A method of applying decorative layers to a steel golf club shaft is disclosed. The method may be performed on any type of steel shaft and comprises buffing the steel shaft, applying a primer or sealer coat, curing the sealer coat, buffing the sealer coat, applying a decal or decorative layer, applying clear coat over the shaft and decal, and curing the clear coat layer. Some embodiments comprise applying a layer of base coat color before applying a decal. Disclosed methods can, for example, improve adhesion between chrome-plated steel golf club shafts and paint, for golf club branding with increased resistance to wear.
1. A golf club component, comprising:
a steel shaft;
a metallic protective coating situated on at least a portion of an exterior of the steel shaft;
wherein the metallic protective coating comprises nickel-chrome; and
wherein the metallic protective coating includes a roughened portion
a primer coat situated on at least a portion of the roughened portion of the metallic protective layer;
a decal situated on the primer coat; and
a clear coat layer covering the decal.
2. The golf club component of claim 1 , wherein the metallic protective coating substantially covers an exterior of the steel shaft.
3. The golf club component of claim 1 , wherein the steel shaft has a club head end portion configured for attachment to a golf club head and a grip end portion configured to receive a golf club grip, and the roughened portion is situated between the club head end portion and the grip end portion.
4. The golf club component of claim 3 , wherein the roughened portion extends completely around the shaft.
5. The golf club component of claim 1 , wherein the primer coat includes a roughened portion to which the decal is secured.
6. The golf club component of claim 5 , wherein the decal and a colored based coat layer are secured to the roughened portion of the primer coat.
7. The golf club of claim 1 , wherein the decal is secured to the steel shaft with sufficient adhesion to pass 200 rubs on a rub test apparatus.