PVD and CVD for coating and surface treatment of tools
PVD and CVD are advanced surface coatings that can be used on tools for applications such as cutting machining, molds for plastic and rubber, as well as stamping tools.
PVD is suitable as a coating for existing tools, as it adds only a minimal thickness of just 3-8 µm.
Tools for sheet metal processing
A PVD treatment provides:
- Scratch-free components
- Fewer operational disruptions
- Longer tool life
- Reduced need for lubricants
Most users of press tools coat their cutting and punching tools because it reduces issues with wear, friction, and welding on both external and internal surfaces. This results in a grinding interval that lasts 3-10 times longer.
Factors such as grinding interval, sheet material, thickness, cutting clearance, and geometry all influence the right choice of tool material and coating.
Molding tools for plastic, rubber, and machining tools
We offer a wide range of advanced surface coatings that can be used on cutting tools and molding tools for plastic and rubber.
The advantages of PVD treatments are that functional surfaces are protected against issues like welding and wear from fillers and chemical attacks from residual gases. This leads to shorter cycle times and better components.
Other types of tools and components
A surface coating with PVD and CVD treatment consists of some of the hardest materials found in nature, effectively resisting abrasive wear.
The surface coatings also offer properties that typically result in lower and more controlled friction compared to untreated components. As a result, many surface-treated machine components have a significantly longer lifespan.
Good adhesion combined with the coating material’s internal properties
Many surface coatings can be applied at temperatures below 250°C, and in some cases below 200°C, which greatly increases the range of materials that can be coated.
Most surface coatings come in decorative colors. The combination of color and function is often a significant factor, especially for consumer products where wear is an issue. Examples include shock absorber tubes for motorcycles or line guides in fishing reels. The color also makes it easy to see when the layer has worn through, which is relevant for components such as fit parts and calibration parts where precise dimensions are critical.
The coating materials are chemically resistant in most environments, reducing the risk of corrosion. Therefore, these surface coatings are also suitable for many medical applications, such as surgical instruments and implants.