SYSTEM FOR FIXTURING A GAS TURBINE ENGINE COMPONENT FOR AN ELECTROPLATING PROCESS

The present disclosure provides for improvements in fixturing parts in preparation for an electroplating process, thus reducing part handling. The system provides a reusable masking tool comprising a main body having an opening with a removeable coverplate positioned within the opening and one or more locking tabs engaging a corresponding relief slot in at least one of the sidewalls of the main body. The system also comprises a fastener moveably secured within the main body and extending through a top surface of the main body. The main body, fastener, and coverplate may be fabricated from a polymer material by way of an additive manufacturing process. A shank, fabricated from a conductive material, extends through the fastener and is engaged with the fastener such that upon rotation of the fastener, the shank is drawn into contact with the gas turbine engine component, thus providing a conduit for the electroplating process.