There are a lot of different applications for physical vapor deposition (PVD materials), ranging from retail products to high tech equipment. A common method of applying this thin, metal coating material is sputtering, where it’s sprayed onto a surface. Big companies in the alloy metal industry commonly use sputtering, and certain companies count this technique as one of their specialties.
1. Tire Rims
If you’ve ever wondered how your tire rims get that shiny chrome finish and remain resistant to wear and tear, you’re probably looking at a PVD coating. However, the difference is that PVD coating isn’t chrome at all. Rather, it’s made to have the same quality of chrome, but traps a metal alloy between a neutral foundation and powdered coating over the top. It increases durability, while still retaining a pleasant aesthetic appearance.
2. Watch and Jewelry Industry
One of the most common applications of PVD coating is found on watches. Before the timepiece industry began coating watches with this substance, it was developed for military use. However, it has several benefits that make it a very attractive and useful attribute for watches. This coating is very durable; it slows down wear on all the components of a watch, such as the crown, bezel, wristband, and other elements.
According to Wenger Watches, the application of PVD is similar to how gold is plated as a current is passed through, though one of the most common applications utilizes a vacuum coating method. It happens through the following process:
1. Watch parts are sealed in a chamber that’s air tight
2. The coating happens when positive ions are attracted to negative voltage
3. Inert gas is pumped into the chamber
4. The correct conditions for PVD application are established
5. Coating compound are applied, usually comprised of common elements such as carbides, nitrides, borides, and silicides, and more.
These are just a few of the different uses for PVD materials that are found throughout the industry, but it’s widely used in all sorts of businesses. Coatings on balloons and on different types of food packaging are some common uses, but it just goes to show that every business’s utilization is different. If you’re looking for a custom alloy and the best usage of the PVD coating process, you need to talk to an expert. These processes are highly technical, and discussing your needs with the right company is essential for meeting your industry needs.
