NICOAT

New duplex coating which combines fine plasma nitriding and extreme properties

This innovative coating is the result of a synergy between plasma nitriding and state-of-the-art PVD coating; the two steps are executed during the same cycle to avoid the formation of a white layer which typically constitutes a problem for the adhesion of any PVD coating and must normally be removed by microblasting and/or further polishing.

NICOAT replicates the morphology of the treated surfaces, without altering the superficial preparation of the dies that are coated.

This technology allows the creation of an interface layer whose hardness gradient is favourable for the coating, which enhances its properties.

NICOAT has excellent adhesion properties thanks to the use of a high-energy etching step, implemented for the first time by a chemical reaction activated by plasma, which makes surfaces particularly reactive to further coating; it has a very low intrinsic roughness thanks to its very thin, almost droplet-free structure, and its hardness is far higher than traditional coatings.

This coating has a high content of aluminium in addition to a percentage of chromium and is suitable for very high operating temperatures.

When to use the NICOAT coating

The combination of plasma nitriding and a coating that is highly resistant to high temperatures is particularly effective in reducing metallization, particularly in the die-casting injection areas, and it reduces the thermal fatigue of the dies while at the same time facilitating detachment of the part. Machine downtime for maintenance is therefore drastically reduced, increasing the productivity of the dies.

The hardness gradient produced by nitriding allows to exceptionally increase the durability and the reliability of the deformation and drawing dies. These properties are enhanced by the very hard and slick coating.