PVD coating solutions for decorative applications
PVD colors with improved functional properties
Instead of using pure metals such as gold or copper, various ceramic layers can be created using INORCOAT PVD technology. These have a comparable appearance to metals, but possess, for example, specifically improved functional properties such as higher hardness, abrasion resistance and chemical resistance compared to the corresponding metals.
Metallic effect coatings
INORCOAT PVD coating solutions offer several possibilities of different decorative coatings in various industries.
Substrate surfaces can thus be refined with decorative metal layers. In this process, the PVD finishing process follows the surface of the substrate 1 to 1, resulting in matte or metallic high-gloss layers depending on the surface properties. The color spectrum ranges from chrome to copper and bronze colors to bright gold and silver effects to deep black and blue tones.
Typical effect metals
- Chromium (Cr)
- Ruthenium (Ru)
- Copper (Cu)
- Gold (Au)
- Silver (Ag)
- Aluminum (AI)
D(iamond)
L(ike)
C(arbon)
Coatings:
DLC coatings are usually deposited via PECVD processes at high temperatures. By plasma support of sputter cathodes such coatings are classically deposited at 200 degrees process temperature. Due to the special features of the INORCOAT coating systems, process temperatures in the range of 100 to 140 degrees can also be achieved, which means that even sensitive materials such as brass-zinc die castings can be coated. The surfaces are characterized by a homogeneous appearance, which, depending on the surface properties, can be matt or, in the case of glossy surfaces, a deep black piano lacquer finish. From deep black to metallic gloss, a wide variety of optical appearances are possible.
In addition to optical aspects, DLC coatings often offer positive functional properties such as friction optimization, high hardness and lower wear.
Colored metallic layers (undercoats) can also be combined with thin black DLC layers to create interesting color systems.
Color:
- Metallic black
- Deep black
Features:
- high color homogeneity
- improved wear resistance
- excellent fatigue strength
DLC piano lacquer look on a polished stainless steel substrate
Example of an INORCOAT DLC layer with a Ti adhesion layer
“Gold” PVD coating of a candle holder
Resistant white gold PVD coating
PVD Gold:
Besides DLC layers, many colors of the rainbow can be realized. Gold tones can be imitated via special ceramic layers:
- Variations of gold tones:
- Old gold
- “Champagne” – light gold
- Rose gold
- Red gold
- White gold
These coating systems are classically either Zr(Zirconium) or Ti(Titanium) based nitride ceramic coatings which can be deposited by INORCOAT sputtering technology at both high and low temperature.
These coatings are characterized by high hardness, abrasion resistance and chemical resistance.
The attractive golden color and the particularly high body compatibility make it suitable for both decorative and medical applications. In the decorative field, this coating is ideal when particularly high demands are placed on abrasion resistance.
Features:
- high hardness and adhesive strength
- good chemical resistance
- good temperature resistance in air
- biocompatible and food safe
Dielectric effect layers (interference colors)
Many colors of the rainbow can be created by suitable choice of layer thickness.
Interference coatings to enhance reflection usually have a thickness (also called optical thickness) of n*d =λ/4. The layers reflect the incident light at their interfaces in such a way that effective color shifts occur due to interference superposition.
If, in addition to the color effect, special requirements are placed on the reflection and transmission behavior, layer combinations of low- and high-refractive dielectric materials can lead to the desired result.
Polymer substrates can also be coated using the INORCOAT PVD coating systems.
Various PVD colors on metals and zipper sliders for zippers
Matt shiny PVD metal surface of zippers
In addition to black and golden colors, other colors can be deposited via interference effects. The special combination of the optical properties of the layers means that the layers can also be deposited on 3D components, such as the zippers shown in the picture. Furthermore, the layers show the same color tone even under different viewing angles.
Other possible colors:
- Blue
- Pink
- Green
Features:
- high hardness and adhesive strength
- good chemical resistance
- good temperature resistance in air
- biocompatible and food safe
PVD coating technology is an environmentally friendly replacement for conventional electroplated chrome technology
PVD – Made compact
The economical entry into PVD coating! Excellent for individual and flexible coating of small series.
PVD – Flexible brilliance
The MS 1000 from INORCOAT offers high performance in a small space. Different coatings and PVD variations can be implemented quickly.
PVD – Allround Talent!
Very accessible workspace and great versatility make the MS 1400 an exceptional athlete with many talents!
Your INORCOAT PVD brochure as PDF!
