RAPID PROTOTYPING

Surface treatments and refinements at ACTech

Sophie Mikeska

The requirements for casting prototypes are complex – this is well known. At ACTech, these requirements also include the refinement of your casting surfaces. From protection against corrosion and wear to improving the appearance of your casting components, the benefits of such treatments are highly versatile and extensive.

Depending on the final application, we can treat the casting surface using various methods to meet your specific requirements. This ensures you receive a ready-to-install prototype – all from a single source.  We specialize in the most common coatings for optimizing component properties. 

One effective base coating for further processes is the treatment with 2K epoxy primer filler. This coating already provides excellent corrosion protection and high durability. Additional beneficial properties can be achieved through the application of further coatings. 

 

For thermally stressed components, a self-priming single-layer system has proven effective, ensuring tested heat resistance up to 650 degrees Celsius with outstanding thermal shock resistance. 

Another frequently used method for protecting thermally stressed components involves a single-component coating, offering long-term heat stability up to 650 degrees Celsius alongside excellent scratch and abrasion resistance.

Our "all-in" approach not only includes a broad spectrum of in-house solutions but also close collaboration with leading external partners. Through these partnerships, we stay at the forefront of the latest technological developments and innovations. These collaborations allow you to benefit from our combined expertise and the convenience of a single point of contact.

One particularly advantageous process for metal surfaces is cathodic dip coating (KTL coating). During this process, the cast component is submerged in an electrically conductive coating bath. An electric field is then established, causing the coating material to be attracted and deposited onto the component. The subsequent curing process seals this coating. This treatment can serve either as a foundation for further surface treatments or as a final coating, providing excellent corrosion resistance for prototypes. This method is used for steel, spheroidal graphite iron, or aluminum cast components.

Another visually appealing coating option we offer is powder coating. This process not only produces corrosion protection but also transforms the cast component into an absolute eye-catcher! Powder coating involves refining the surface with a powder-based lacquer, which adheres to the electrically charged component. This method provides numerous design possibilities in terms of color and texture for the casting's surface, alongside protection from external influences.

 

Beyond coatings applied to the surface, we also offer treatments that alter the surface in other ways. 

One such method is passivation, which enhances surface quality. Passivation acts as an adhesion promoter for further coatings but already provides excellent corrosion protection in its untreated state while maintaining conductivity. A thin oxide layer is formed on the aluminum surface using a passivation solution. Due to its versatility, this surface treatment is used in the electronics, IT, machinery, aerospace, and automotive industries.

For maximum wear and corrosion resistance, chemical nickel plating is an excellent option for cast components. During this process, a layer of nickel is applied to the casting surface, and the incorporation of phosphorus significantly increases surface hardness. This process is applicable to nearly all metal surfaces.

 

We are happy to assist you in finding the right surface treatment for your requirements. Regardless of the method you choose, just as in all other process steps, we place unwavering focus on quality when treating the surfaces of your prototypes. Go "all-in" with us as your partner by your side! 

Invest in the future of casting production with ACTech. We look forward to working with you!