Physical Vapor Deposition,
commonly referred to as PVD is a process in which a coating is added
to a component ion by ion. The PVD process creates a uniform layer
with a thickness so precise and consistent that engineers can anticipate
the increase of the dimensions when they design the components.
During the PVD coating process, the parts are placed into the
chamber on a carousel-- the atmosphere is removed and the parts
are brought to a preset temperature. The cathode ignites and begins
to evaporate the source material. A reactive gas is introduced into
the chamber as the source material is being evaporated. This reactive
gas can be a mix of gasses or a single gas. As the source material
is evaporated, it is ionized. The free floating ions are drawn to
the parts via a negative bias applied. The ions react at the surface
of the parts with the reactive gas to create a new metal compound
which adheres to the part on a molecular level.
A PVD coating minimizes fretting and abrasive wear, reduces friction,
protects against material transfer and provides a barrier against
elevated temperatures. For example, the part of the valve that takes
the worst beating is the seat.
When this part is treated with Racing
Plasma PVD process, the seat looks the same at the end of the race
as it did at the beginning. As a result, compression is retained
throughout the course of a race. We know racing teams are always
searching for the highest level of performance, so our staff continually
works to develop new metallic film coatings. Your unique requirements
will determine which coating is recommended-- Titanium Nitride,
Titanium CarboNitride, Aluminum Titanium Nitride, Chromium Nitride,
Zirconium Nitride
