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Zn-PVD coating properties

Zn-PVD coatings can be processed in the same way as conventionally coated steel strips. They can be used for all applications up to the most demanding automotive applications.

The Plasma Enhanced Evaporation technology developed by NEOVAC is a quasi-cold and hydrogen-free coating that offers the possibility of specifically influencing the coating in order to systematically optimize individual coating properties.

Corrosion protection

Zn-PVD coatings offer corrosion protection on a par with conventional coating methods. With the same coating thickness, the technology used to apply zinc is irrelevant for corrosion protection. However, Zn-PVD coatings have an extremely dense and fine-grained structure.

Surface finish

Zn-PVD coatings offer a silky matt, extremely uniform surface similar to that of electrolytic galvanizing. There are no visible macro-crystals or waviness as with hot-dip galvanizing.

Zn-PVD coating on deep-drawn steel, silk matt, extremely even surface similar to that of electrolytic galvanized steel grades
Zn-PVD coating on deep-drawing steel

Layer adhesion/formability

Zn-PVD coatings offer a silky matt, extremely uniform surface similar to that of electrolytic galvanizing. There are no visible macro-crystals or waviness as with hot-dip galvanizing.

Zn-PVD coating on 1700 MPa ultra-high-strength steel (UHSS)
Zn-PVD coating on high-strength steel

Morphology

Zn-PVD coatings have an extremely dense and homogeneous structure. Thanks to the Plasma Enhanced Evaporation technology developed by NEOVAC, it is possible to produce an exceptionally fine crystalline morphology even with thick layers.

Zn-PVD layers do not form their own structures, they form the surface of the base material.

Before Zn-PVD coating:
Ra=0.7μm RPc=55/cm Wsa=0.22μm

After Zn-PVD coating (15 µm):

Ra=0.7μm RPc=55/cm Wsa=0.24μm

31 µm Zn-PVD coating on flat steel
31 µm Zn-PVD coating

Paintability

Zn-PVD coatings offer paintability on a par with conventional coating methods. This can even be improved with suitable post-treatment coatings.