What are the common platings and coatings in linear motion systems？

Many industries have processes that take place in extreme environments-- food processing and packaging;medical devices and life sciences;and semiconductor and electronics manufacturing.From human safety concerns to the erosiveness of acidic or corrosive chemicals,these industries make some of the most demanding material requirements in the linear motion world.However,with the right coating or plating materials,standard linear motion components and systems can be used even in the harshest conditions.Here are four common plating and coating options.

●Electroless Nickel

Electroless plating is an autocatalytic process,meaning that it is achieved through chemical reactions,as opposed to the traditional electroplating process,which uses an electric current to promote plating.Electroless plating processes provide more uniform plating thickness,no additional deposits on edges or corners,and more reliable plating with holes and depressions.Electroless nickel plating consists of nickel-phosphorus alloy,and the amount of phosphorus determines the hardness and corrosion resistance.Electroless nickel plating can provide PTFE(Teflon)topcoats to increase lubricity,although alkaline or chlorine solutions may affect the life of the coatings.

Electroless Nickel Plating

●Electroless Nickel with PTFE

Another variation of electroless nickel plating involves submicron PTFE particles dispersed throughout the nickel-phosphorus matrix.This has higher durability than typical PTFE coatings and combines the advantages of electroless nickel plating.Electroless nickel plating with PTFE can withstand prolonged exposure to acidic or corrosive chemicals with a PH range of 3-9.

Electroless Nickel with PTFE

●Nickel Cobalt

Nickel-cobalt plating is also achieved by a chemical process,making it suitable for complex parts and parts with strict tolerances.Nickel-cobalt platings are a highly corrosion resistant option and are generally considered the best solution for washdown environments,especially those containing additives(alkaline or chlorine).

Nickel Cobalt

●Hard Coat Black Anodize

PTFE hard coated black anodizing is the best solution for aluminum components requiring corrosion resistance and high durability,such as sliding bearings and linear actuator housings.The coating produces a surface hardness(60-65 Rc)comparable to that of surface hardened steel,with high durability and high corrosion resistance.It also has a low coefficient of friction and dry lubrication properties,which are very important for sliding or rolling bearing surfaces.

 

Hard Coat Black Anodize

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