Surface Engineering Material & Chemistry Library
Technical Reference for Coating Agents, Metallic Media, and Chemical Baths
This library provides deep-dive data on the materials used during the finishing phase. Understanding these components allows engineers to predict chemical compatibility, environmental resistance, and structural longevity.
Overview
Surface finishing at REBAN is more than aesthetic enhancement; it is an engineering necessity. We specialize in modifying surface topography and chemistry to optimize for electrical conductivity, friction reduction, and chemical durability. Our facility bridges the gap between raw fabrication and high-performance end-use.
1. Metallic Plating & Oxidation Agents
The chemical building blocks used to transform the surface chemistry of metal substrates.
Nickel Sulfamate: The primary agent for Electroless Nickel Plating. It provides low internal stress and high ductility, making it ideal for parts subject to thermal cycling.
Chromic/Sulfuric Acid Electrolytes: Used in Type II & III Anodizing. Sulfuric acid is the standard for decorative/protective layers, while Chromic acid is utilized for aerospace parts where fatigue life is critical.
Trivalent Chromium (Cr3+): A REACH-compliant chemical conversion agent. It provides a protective “clear” or “iridescent” film on aluminum, replacing hazardous Hexavalent Chrome.
Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda): The fundamental etching agent used to “clean” aluminum surfaces before finishing, ensuring absolute adhesion of subsequent layers.
2. Vacuum Deposition & Thin-Film Targets
High-purity solid materials used in PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) systems to create atomic-level coatings.
PVD Vacuum Deposition Target & Thin-Film Library
| Material Target | Resulting Coating | Hardness (HV) | Friction Coeff. | Key Property & Industrial Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium (Ti) | Titanium Nitride (TiN) | 2,300 | 0.4 | Gold-color aesthetic; High wear resistance for medical tools. |
| Chromium (Cr) | Chromium Nitride (CrN) | 1,800 | 0.5 | Silver-metallic; Excellent corrosion and chemical resistance. |
| Graphite / Carbon | Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) | 2,500 – 5,000 | 0.05 – 0.15 | Ultra-low friction; Bio-inert for implants and engine valves. |
| Al-Ti Alloy | AlTiN / TiAlN | 3,300 – 3,500 | 0.35 | Extreme thermal stability (>800°C); High-speed cutting tools. |
| Zirconium (Zr) | Zirconium Nitride (ZrN) | 2,500 | 0.45 | Brass-color finish; Superior scratch resistance for luxury goods. |
| Titanium-Silicon | TiSiN (Nanocomposite) | 3,800 – 4,200 | 0.4 | Super-hard nanocrystalline structure for hardened tool steel. |
| Chromium-Aluminum | AlCrN | 3,000 | 0.3 | Exceptional oxidation resistance at high temperatures. |
3. Industrial Coating & Resin Systems
The organic and ceramic polymers used for barrier protection and aesthetics.
TGIC-Free Polyester (Powder Coating): The most common powder resin for outdoor hardware. It offers superior UV resistance and prevents “chalking” under sunlight.
Epoxy Resins: Used for heavy-duty indoor industrial equipment. Offers the highest chemical and impact resistance but is sensitive to UV light.
Ceramic-Polymer Hybrids (Cerakote®): A proprietary formulation of ceramic particles suspended in a polymer carrier. It provides the highest hardness-to-thickness ratio (9H hardness at only 25μm).
Fluoropolymers (PTFE/Xylan®): Specialized low-friction coatings (Teflon-based) used for fasteners and moving parts to prevent galling and “stick-slip.”
4. Mechanical Abrasives & Smoothing Media
The physical media used in topographical refinement and cleaning.
Zirconia Ceramic Beads: High-density spherical media used for Bead Blasting. Unlike glass, ceramic beads do not break down into dust, providing a cleaner, more consistent “satin” finish.
Aluminum Oxide (White/Brown): An aggressive, angular abrasive used for deep cleaning or creating a “rough” surface profile (anchor pattern) to improve paint adhesion.
Walnut Shells & Corn Cob: Soft, organic media used for precision deburring of delicate electronics or plastic parts without damaging the substrate.
Physicochemical Solvents (Vapor Smoothing): Specialized eco-friendly esters used in a gaseous state to seal the surface of SLS/MJF Nylon parts.
Finishing Compatibility & Substrate Guide
| Substrate | Primary Finishing Match | Technical Engineering Reason | Performance Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum 6061 / 5052 | Type III Hard Anodizing | Electro-chemical conversion creates an integral Al₂O₃ oxide bond. | Extreme abrasion resistance; Non-conductive skin. |
| Stainless Steel 300 Series | Electropolishing | Selectively removes surface iron ions to maximize Chromium enrichment. | Superior hygiene (Ra < 0.2); Maximum corrosion barrier. |
| Copper / Brass Alloys | Electroless Nickel (ENP) | Autocatalytic reaction ensures 100% uniform thickness on internal geometries. | Prevents oxidation while maintaining signal integrity. |
| Titanium Grade 5 (Ti6Al4V) | PVD (TiN / DLC) | Vacuum deposition adds ceramic-level hardness without hydrogen embrittlement. | Biocompatible wear resistance; Reduced friction coefficient. |
| Zinc / Magnesium Alloy | MAO (Micro-Arc Oxidation) | High-voltage plasma discharge forms a crystalline ceramic layer. | Excellent thermal stability and high-impact durability. |
| Tool Steel (SKD11 / H13) | Nitriding / Cerakote® | Infuses nitrogen into the crystal lattice or applies a ceramic thermal barrier. | Anti-galling; Withstands temperatures > 500°C. |
| Nylon PA11 / PA12 (3D) | Vapor Smoothing | Physicochemical reflow seals surface micropores and voids. | Watertightness; Injection-molding aesthetic (Glossy). |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | UV-Hardcoat Coating | Cross-linked polymer layer prevents polymer chain degradation. | Anti-scratch (4H+); Long-term optical clarity. |
Engineering the Perfect Finish
At REBAN, we understand that a component’s surface is its first line of defense and its primary brand statement. Our facility combines the artistic precision of master finishers with the data-driven rigor of material scientists. Whether you are solving for extreme friction in aerospace or optical clarity in consumer tech, we provide the validated chemistry to make your vision a reality.
Our Quality Commitment
Full Traceability: Every batch is delivered with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and material compliance reports.
Zero-Defect Philosophy: Automated inspection protocols to ensure 100% surface integrity.
Rapid Scalability: From a single “Golden Sample” to mass production of millions, our processes remain stable and repeatable.
