We've already covered the basic finishes in Part One of our series, and living finishes in Part Two.
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from KINGYANG METAL.
Now, we want to talk about PVD and Powder Coated finishes. Used to protect and decorate metal, both finishes are durable options for all interiors, but with some key differences. Read on to learn about how PVD and Powder Coating could work for you.
Still have questions?
Powder coating coats surfaces with a protective later of polymer resin. It's so named because the process involves spraying dry powder onto an object, such a door knob or house number, and then baking the item in the oven to "cure" the powder. Under heat the the powder melts into a smooth and durable finish, that is well bonded, corrosion resistant and features an improved appearance. Powder Coating can last 20+ years and comes in a variety of shades and colours.
The PVD process not only increases the product's longevity but also reduces its maintenance.This coating is known for its durability and corrosion resistance, making it an excellent choice for use on door handles, locks, and other architectural hardware that is exposed to the elements.
The metal coating of PVD is stronger and more resistant than the "substrate" or metal underneath the coating. So, when coating a stainless steel item with PVD the primary stainless steel is now covered with a better, more resistant metal layer.
One of the main benefits of PVD coating is its ability to withstand wear and tear. PVD coatings are four times harder than chrome, making is extremely hard and resistant to scratching. They are also resistant to fading and discoloration, so the finish will remain bright and vibrant for years to come.
One of the main differences is the application process. Powder coating is a dry process in which a powder-like substance made of resin and pigment is applied to a product using an electrostatic charge. The product is then placed in an oven where the powder melts and forms a hard, durable finish.
On the other hand, PVD coating is a wet process in which a thin layer of metal is vaporized and deposited onto the surface of a product. The process typically involves a high-vacuum chamber, a cathode (the product being coated), and an anode (the source of the metal vapor). The metal vapor is then deposited onto the surface of the product, forming a thin, hard, and durable finish.
Both powder coating and PVD coating offer excellent durability and corrosion resistance, but PVD coating is generally considered to be more durable and longer lasting. PVD coatings are also resistant to fading and discoloration, while powder coatings may fade over time.
While both Powder Coating and PVD Coating are scratch and corrosion resistant, PVD is more scratch resistant, and is generally preferred for high traffic areas or external uses, however both are excellent choices for heavy use areas.
PVD is by far the longest lasting material that requires the least maintenance and upkeep. But beware, while scratching PVD is unlikely to near impossible, if it is scratched it cannot be re-applied, so unlikely damage to a PVD coating is permanent. Powder Coating can be reapplied if scratching occurs, or if the coating fades.
For many, the main difference between the two coatings is the aesthetic and style options offered.
Because Powder Coating is powdered polymer, it comes in almost any colour you can imagine, and in matte or glossy, satin or eggshell. Note just like painting a wall, some items show more damage than others.
For custom powder coating we offer over 100 different RAL colours. However, for the same reason, Powder coating can not never offer a metal finish; if you want a copper, steel or gold look, you need coated metal.My powder coating has changed
If your powder coated metal has lost its shine, it&#;s a pretty easy process to bring it back. After removing dirt with mild soap, you can apply a thin layer of wax just as you would wax a car. After the wax dries, wipe all of it off and powder coated metal will have its original lustre. Note that we only suggest this for non-matte coatings. Always try first in an inconspicuous spot.
Don&#;t paint!
If you&#;re wondering if you can touch up imperfections in your powder coating with paint, please don&#;t! Because of the polymer in powder coating, paint won&#;t adhere. If your powder coating is showing wear, you will need a professional to either repair or redo the powder coating.
Leave it alone
It seems counterintuitive, but both PVD coating and Powder coating are resistant, low maintenance coatings. They will last the longest if cleaned rarely, gently, and basically just used as they were intended.
PVD is used for its durable, scratch proof finish. Yet even so, PVD coating can become damaged due to
hard knocks or repeated rubbing with abrasive materials. For daily cleaning, wipe with a soft and clean cotton or microfibre cloth.
Using Cleaners
Never use highly alkaline or acidic cleaners, like soap flakes or vinegar. The former can leave a greasy film which can, overtime, wear down the coating. The latter can damage or etch the coating. including steel wool and polish. Likewise, do not use highly abrasive scrubs or steel wool, which can scratch the coating and are not necessary to clean PVD coated products.
But, I had PVD and it wore off before?
PVD can ear off when applied very thinly and with repetitive use, such as some watches. There have been some industries which call any matte black metal PVD. Real PVD, particularly ones used by reputable designers and retailers will not wear off with proper care.
Still have questions?
Contact us to discuss your requirements of PVD Coated Stainless Steel. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
In the realm of material science and metallurgy, the emergence of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology has introduced a new era of possibilities. This innovative process has revolutionized our perception and use of stainless steel, adding vibrant colors and an unprecedented level of durability. This article explores the intriguing world of PVD coatings, focusing on their application to stainless steel sheets, especially in creating beautiful gold and black finishes.
PVD Coating: An Innovative Technological
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) is a state-of-the-art vacuum coating technique revolutionizing material finishing. This process generates a metal vapor that condenses onto electrically conductive materials, creating a thin, strongly adhered pure metal or alloy coating. Renowned for their outstanding durability, corrosion resistance, and visual appeal, PVD coatings have become the top choice across numerous industries.
The PVD Process: A Closer Look
Principle of operation of PVD
The PVD process starts by placing stainless steel sheets in a vacuum chamber. Within this chamber, a high-purity solid coating material, typically metals such as titanium or zirconium, is evaporated either by heat or ion bombardment, a technique known as sputtering. The resulting metal vapor traverses the vacuum environment and eventually deposits on the stainless steel sheets, forming a thin coating layer.
This process is conducted at high temperatures, generally ranging from 150 to 500 degrees Celsius. These high temperatures ensure that the coating material is fully vaporized, enabling it to form a uniform and strongly adhered coating on the stainless steel sheet. The vacuum environment prevents the coating material from reacting with other substances, thus ensuring the purity and quality of the final coating.
Comparing Horizontal and Vertical Furnaces
In the world of PVD, there are two main types of production equipment: horizontal and vertical furnaces. While both types of furnaces can produce PVD-coated stainless steel sheets, they each have their unique advantages and disadvantages
Horizontal furnaces are recognized for their ability to produce PVD stainless steel sheets with brighter and more vibrant colors. This is primarily attributed to the distinct target materials employed in horizontal furnaces. Nevertheless, the operational expenses associated with horizontal furnaces are typically higher, prompting vertical furnaces to emerge as a more economical choice for most applications.
Vertical furnaces, conversely, offer a cost-effective solution and can achieve excellent quality in PVD coatings. However, the colors produced by vertical furnaces may not match the vibrant hues achieved by horizontal furnaces. This variation stems from the different target materials utilized in vertical furnaces, influencing the color and overall appearance of the coating.
A Spectrum of Colors: The Art of PVD Coatings
One of the standout features of PVD technology is its capacity to create a diverse spectrum of colors. From luxurious gold and champagne tones to striking blues, greens, and deep blacks, the range of possibilities is extensive. However, each color presents its own distinct challenges and considerations.
For example, achieving stable green PVD coatings necessitates meticulous monitoring and control throughout the coating process. Conversely, black PVD coatings present opportunities for enhancing depth and richness of color. This can be achieved by integrating a fingerprint-resistant coating, resulting in a striking and resilient black finish.
Maintaining Color Uniformity: Addressing Challenges
Ensuring consistent color across various batches of PVD-coated stainless steel sheets poses challenges due to furnace condition limitations. Yet, by meticulously controlling parameters, achieving a color match of over 90% between batches is feasible. This guarantees a uniform, high-quality appearance in the final product, regardless of production time or location.
Thickness and Hardness of PVD Coatings
PVD coatings are renowned not only for their visual allure but also for their functional benefits. Typically ranging in thickness from 0.25 to 10 micrometers, these coatings are tailored to meet specific product requirements and application needs. Their thin yet durable nature strikes an optimal balance between performance and aesthetics, rendering them ideal for diverse applications.
Regarding hardness, PVD coatings are celebrated for their outstanding durability, significantly boosting the hardness of stainless steel sheets to resist scratches and wear. This characteristic makes PVD-coated stainless steel sheets an excellent option for applications demanding both robustness and aesthetic appeal, such as architectural cladding, interior design, and consumer electronics.
The Benefits of PVD Coating Finish
PVD coatings present numerous advantages, making them a favored choice across various industries. They offer excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance, thereby extending the product's lifespan. Additionally, PVD coatings come in a wide array of colors, providing greater design flexibility. Furthermore, the PVD process is environmentally friendly, as it does not generate harmful by-products.
Conclusion: The Transformative Power of PVD Coatings on Stainless Steel
PVD technology has revolutionized material science and metallurgy, providing aesthetic versatility and superior durability. This process creates high-quality, uniform coatings on stainless steel sheets using vacuum evaporation and deposition. Both horizontal and vertical furnaces offer unique advantages, producing vibrant and resilient finishes. With a wide color range and enhanced hardness, PVD-coated stainless steel is ideal for applications from architecture to electronics. Its exceptional corrosion resistance and environmental friendliness make it a revolutionary material for the future.
For more information, please visit Blue Hairline Stainless Steel Sheets.