Aluminum components get a boost

A surface coating is now available that?s reportedly capable of enhancing the physical properties of aluminum components. Tufram surface coating combines the hardness of aluminum oxide ceramic with the properties of selected proprietary polymers. According to the manufacturer, this combination provides aluminum mold parts with new levels of hardness, wear and corrosion resistance, and permanent lubricity.

Depending on the alloy used and the variety of the coating chosen, treated metals reportedly have a hardness of 40 to 65 Rockwell C. Corrosion resistance is also reportedly greater than conventional hard anodizing, particularly for common chemicals where it offers up to 15,000 hours of protection.

The Tufram process converts aluminum surfaces without affecting the high conductivity of the parent metal. These coatings have full compliance with FDA, USDA, NSF, and AgriCanada codes, making it suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications. An ultrathin version of the original coating is also available. Tufram 2000 is said to offer a high degree of precision with .0005- to .0007-inch thickness, while still providing extremely high resistance to wear and corrosion.

General Magnaplate Corp.
Linden, NJ
Phone: (908) 862-6200
www.magnaplate.com