Hard chrome replacement coating

Initial situation

Hard chrome coatings are widely used in mechanical engineering because they are inexpensive and in many cases perfectly adequate. However, alternatives are required whenever hard chrome coatings are stretched to the limit or if their coating structure and composition do not meet requirements. In addition, complex covering methods and lengthy electroplating significantly increase project duration. Continuously rising demands and wear and tear from applications in mechanical engineering – for example in the textile and paper industries as well as the automotive sector – require more effective, denser and more uniform surfaces. Microcracks and a defective coating structure due to flaws in hard chrome coatings quickly lead to subsurface corrosion problems and therefore expensive failure.

Moreover, mechanical engineering will be affected by a problem which should not be underestimated. Chromium trioxide/hexavalent chromium important for chrome plating has been included in the list of SVHCs (substances of very high concern) in REACH (the EU Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), making its future use uncertain.

The solution

By using new, cutting-edge methods such as HVAF coating, we produce economically viable coatings which are far superior to hard chrome. These non-porous coatings have excellent adhesion and a homogeneous, flawless structure, effectively preventing subsurface corrosion. HVAF enables much thicker coatings than hard chrome. Moreover, surface hardness of up to 1400HV is possible, easily outstripping hard chrome, while surface roughness can be brought down to well below Ra 0.1. We are also able to individually modify the coating properties for each component by means of alternative powder compositions. The coating structure isn’t impaired by the substrate’s properties, and coating isn’t restricted to metals which are electrically conductive. The use of these methods makes for quick order turnaround. And since powder coating is harmless, hard chrome replacement coatings will always be available.

Putzier applies hard metal coatings based on chromium or tungsten carbides by means of the HVAF coating process using its own products such as MC32, MC34 and MC40.

The result

Clients benefit from hard chrome replacement coatings with maximum performance which are clearly superior to hard chrome coatings in terms of surface quality and technical characteristics. The crack-free, non-porous coatings with modifiable surface topography protect the sealing elements used by means of low-wear movement (e.g. in connection with piston rods). The variety of coatings available ensures that the ideal solution can be provided for each application. Thermal replacement coatings are harmless and will therefore always be available. And they are produced in full compliance with ISO14001 and OHSAS 18001.

Why opt for Putzier?

By choosing Putzier, you’re opting for effective coating systems developed by a market leader certified under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001 and GTS. Putzier’s technically superior methods such as HVAF coating give our clients the necessary edge over their competitors. Our trend awareness and our timely focus on market changes as well as our constant involvement in domestic and international research projects ensure that we are always ready to act when our clients need us.