Beläggningsmetaller

Beläggningsmetaller, or coating metals in English, are metallic materials applied to a substrate to provide a desired property. This coating can be applied through various processes, including electroplating, physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), thermal spraying, and hot-dip coating. The primary purpose of using beläggningsmetaller is to enhance the surface characteristics of the base material, which is often a less expensive or less durable metal, plastic, or ceramic.

Common beläggningsmetaller include chromium, nickel, zinc, copper, gold, silver, and aluminum. Chromium plating, for instance, is widely used for its hardness, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal, often seen on automotive parts and plumbing fixtures. Nickel coatings offer excellent corrosion resistance and can serve as an underlayer for other plating processes. Zinc is frequently used as a sacrificial coating to protect steel from rust, as seen in galvanized steel.

The selection of a specific beläggningsmetall depends on the intended application and the required performance. Factors such as adhesion strength, wear resistance, electrical conductivity, thermal properties, and biocompatibility all play a role in this decision. Beyond functional enhancements, beläggningsmetaller are also employed for decorative purposes, improving the visual appeal of products. The environmental impact of both the coating materials and the application processes is an important consideration in modern manufacturing.