Physical vapor deposition or PVD refers to a collection of processes that produce thin films. Rendered in another way, PVD is basically a coating technique done via vaporization, according to AZom. It’s an alternative solution to electroplating.
Processes
The main physical process in use in PVD is heating, along with sputtering, which is responsible for producing vapor. This vapor is then deposited on the object that needs coating. The process is highly similar to how chemical vapor deposition or CVD works. The main difference is that, in CVD, the raw materials to be deposited are in solid form. In PVD, the materials are always in vapor or gaseous form. Other processes include sputter coating as well, along with pulsed laser deposition or PLD.
How It Happens
PVD involves 4 steps. These are: evaporation, transportation, reaction and last, deposition.
PVD coating
A result of heating PVD materials, it’s a hard coating that’s durable than most coating available out in the market. If you want that gleaming finish to last, going for a PVD coating is a good way to make that possible. Aside from long lasting coating, the material also improves oxidation resistance and reduces friction. This way, the coating allows components to survive environments they normally wouldn’t. This translates to better efficiency of the components as well. With a PVC coating, you can expect more from the object in terms of performance.
Coating Materials
PVD coating is ideal for use on a variety of materials. For best, lasting results, though, chrome plated materials as well as stainless steel both work exceptionally well with the coating. However, some materials don’t need to be electroplated. In such cases, the PVD coating is usually applied straight on the substrate material. So if you were wondering where else you could use your PVD coatings, then find any material that’s made out of nickel or chromium and you have something that can be PVD coated.
PVD Maintenance
Is it easy to clean a PVD coating? Take any soft cloth and dunk it in a mixture of water and mild soap. Stay away from products that remove tarnish or rust, though, as these will cause damage to your PVD coating. Be on the lookout for any detergents that contain the following: hydrofluoric, phosphoric and hydrochloric acid. Also, never use scouring or bleach pads, especially those with rough surfaces as these will also wear down the coat much faster.
