Surface treatment with dissolved materials
Anodizing
Anodizing is a surface treatment in which an oxide film is formed on the surface of a metal object through anodic oxidation. This layer prevents corrosion and improves the functionality and appearance of the object.
Anodizing is a type of anodizing and is best known in connection with the surface treatment of aluminum alloys. The resulting anodized layer protects the metal from oxidation and increases durability.
Anodizing and technical anodizing can be used on various other metals besides aluminum. These so-called valve metals, including steel, titanium and magnesium, also form a protective oxide layer when anodized.
Nitriding
Nitriding is a thermal treatment in which a metal is treated with nitrogen using heat and pressure. This treatment gives the metal greater hardness, improves wear resistance and increases corrosion resistance. Nitriding is often used on steel, iron, brass and aluminum.
Tinning
Tinning is a technique in which one metal, usually zinc, is applied to another metal. It is often used to protect metal parts from corrosion, especially in a humid environment. Zinc is used as a tinning material because it is a very good corrosion inhibitor and has a long lifetime.
Zinc galvanizing
Zinc galvanizing is a process in which metal surfaces are coated with a layer of zinc. This process is often used on steel and iron, but can also be applied to other metallic surfaces such as aluminum or copper. Zinc galvanized metal surfaces are resistant to acid rain, salty air and other environmental conditions that may lead to corrosion.
Chromating
Chromating is a surface treatment process. It involves applying a layer of metal or metal alloys to the surface of a material to protect, embellish or modify it. It is typically applied to metal surfaces to make them more corrosion resistant and protect them against oxidation.
Electroless nickel plating
Electroless nickel plating is a surface treatment technique used to apply a layer of nickel to a metal surface. The applied nickel provides a very smooth and hard surface that is corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant. This technique is a popular choice for industrial applications because it not only creates a smooth, beautiful surface, but also a durable surface that will provide protection for a long time. Electroless nickel plating is usually applied to metal parts such as bolts, screws, nuts, shafts, couplings and other fasteners.
Phosphating
Phosphating is a surface treatment in which a phosphate layer is applied to a metal surface. This layer is used to protect the surface from corrosion and to give the surface a shiny appearance. Phosphate coating is commonly used on automotive parts, tools, machinery and other metal surfaces.
Sol-Gel
Sol-gel is a process for producing surface treatments in which a solution of silicate or aluminate compounds are introduced into a preformed surface. This process is often used in electronics, automotive-, textile- and furniture industry as well as in the chemical industry. Sol-gel coatings are very thin, smooth, robust and corrosion-resistant, which makes them particularly attractive for a wide range of applications.