How is Coloured Stainless Steel Made (PVD)? What Are Its ...

13 Aug.,2024

 

How is Coloured Stainless Steel Made (PVD)? What Are Its ...

PVD coloured stainless steel, used in the creation of sculpture, jewellery and phones, is also sufficiently robust to be specified by interior designers and architects for interior and exterior architectural use. We take a snapshot of this very versatile medium.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from KINGYANG METAL.

PVD coating &#; a spectrum of colour options

When it comes to stainless steel you&#;re not just restricted to simply silver. There are a rainbow of colour opportunities which can be achieved through the Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) process.

The process of PVD coating

During the process, first of all the stainless steel is cleaned to make sure that the coating will bond well. The steel is then placed in a vacuum chamber with a &#;target&#; metal; this will be used to create the coating. A high vacuum level is needed in the coating chamber, then a small amount of argon gas is introduced. A high voltage circuit is used in order for the stainless steel and target to bond or adhere. This allows the argon ions to bombard the target to release atoms of the target metal, which are deposited on the stainless steel substrate as the coating. This PVD process is called sputtering; resulting in the deposition of plasma on the stainless steel surface which gives it its new strength and shine.

The coloured surface coatings that can be obtained using PVD include: gold (TiN), rose gold (ZrN), bronze (TiAlN), blue (TiAlN), black (TiAlCN), as well as a dark red (ZrN). This ceramic coating which is produced is very thin, making the texture of the underlying finish still visible. These PVD colours will not fade over time and have the benefit of being more uniform in appearance and more abrasion-resistant than colouring which is done by the electrochemical processes.

Wear and weather resistant

The stainless steel&#;s original texture and structure is not changed however the PVD process not only increases the product&#;s longevity but also reduces its maintenance. Although it has been used for applications that need to be wear and weather resistant, like door hardware, it is important to say that the colour can be damaged if it is attacked very aggressively and in some instances may not be repairable. PVD lasts longer than other coatings which are a similar thickness.

An environmentally friendly process

The PVD process is also more environmentally friendly than alternatives such as electroplating and painting. Unlike these there are no gases, water waste and other residue released. Also important to note is that the colouring process does not limit the recycling value of the stainless steel.

Uses for PVD coated stainless steel

Architectural

PVD coloured stainless steel is well used in the architectural and industrial design industry. Examples include;- stainless steel curtain walls, cladding and profiles for hotels and casinos, shopping centres, railway stations and for the facades and fit-outs of high-end retail stores.

Transport

PVD coated stainless steel can also be used in the transport industry such as;- ceiling and wall cladding to shipping or seating, skirting and panelling on trains.

Are you interested in learning more about PVD Coated Stainless Steel? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Ironmongery

At the smaller end of the scale the coloured steel can be used for anything from display cases, furniture, lighting fixtures, to door handles and taps./p>

Jewellery

The PVD process can also be used on stainless steel jewellery &#; achieving some striking colours. The PVD stable colours are gold, rose gold, coffee, black, dark grey, and blue. All these colours are available in a polished, satin or matt finish according to the product surface polish finish.

For gold and rose gold finish, real gold (maybe 14K or 18K) is evaporated and deposited on the part under high temperatures or via ion bombardment. The shade of the gold achieved is according to the gold content of the target. Colour pigments or gas together with the TiN layer are used to achieve other shades.

What Is PVD Coatings? The Ultimate Guide To Color Stainless ...

In the realm of material science and metallurgy, the advent of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology has ushered in a new era of possibilities. This innovative process has transformed the way we perceive and utilize stainless steel, adding a splash of color and a layer of durability that was previously unimaginable. This article aims to delve into the fascinating world of PVD coatings, with a special focus on its application on stainless steel sheets, particularly in creating stunning gold and black finishes.
 

 

PVD Coating: A Revolutionary Technology

Physical Vapor Deposition, or PVD, is a cutting-edge vacuum coating technique that has taken the world of material finishing by storm. This process involves the generation of a metal vapor that condenses on electrically conductive materials, forming a thin, highly adhered pure metal or alloy coating. Known for their exceptional durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal, PVD coatings have become a preferred choice in various industries.
 

 

The PVD Process: A Closer Look

 


Principle of operation of PVD


The PVD process begins with the placement of stainless steel sheets in a vacuum chamber. Here, a high-purity, solid coating material&#;usually metals like titanium or zirconium&#;is evaporated by heat or by bombardment with ions, a process known as sputtering. The metal vapor then travels through the vacuum environment, eventually depositing on the stainless steel sheets, forming a thin layer of coating.

This process is carried out at high temperatures, typically between 150 to 500 degrees Celsius. The high temperature ensures that the coating material is fully vaporized, allowing it to form a uniform and adherent coating on the stainless steel sheet. The vacuum environment, on the other hand, prevents the coating material from reacting with other substances, ensuring the purity and quality of the final coating.
 

 

Horizontal vs. Vertical Furnaces: A Comparative Analysis


In the world of PVD, there are two main types of production equipment: horizontal and vertical furnaces. While both types of furnaces can produce PVD-coated stainless steel sheets, they each have their unique advantages and disadvantages.



Horizontal furnaces, for instance, are known for producing PVD stainless steel sheets with brighter and more vibrant colors. This is largely due to the different target materials used in horizontal furnaces. However, the processing cost of horizontal furnaces is generally higher, making vertical furnaces a more cost-effective option for most applications.

Vertical furnaces, on the other hand, are more affordable and are capable of producing high-quality PVD coatings. However, the colors produced by vertical furnaces may not be as vibrant as those produced by horizontal furnaces. This is because vertical furnaces use different target materials, which can affect the color and appearance of the final coating.
 

 

A Spectrum of Colors: The Art of PVD Coatings


One of the most remarkable aspects of PVD technology is its ability to produce a wide array of colors. From gold and champagne to blue, green, and black, the possibilities are virtually endless. However, each color comes with its unique set of challenges and considerations.

For instance, green PVD coatings can sometimes be unstable, requiring careful monitoring and control during the coating process. Black PVD coatings, on the other hand, offer room for improvement in terms of depth and richness of color. This can be achieved by combining the black PVD coating with a fingerprint-resistant coating, resulting in a stunning and durable black finish.

Click here to check PVD black
Click here to learn more about Fingerprint-resistant coating(AFP)
 

 

Consistency in Color: The Challenge and Solution


Maintaining color consistency across different batches of PVD-coated stainless steel sheets can be a challenge due to the inherent limitations of the furnace conditions. However, through meticulous control of various parameters, it is possible to achieve a color match of over 90% between different batches. This ensures that the final product maintains a consistent and high-quality appearance, regardless of when or where it was produced.

Know more about our PVD color, just click here
 

 


The Thickness Range and Hardness of PVD Coatings


PVD coatings are not only known for their aesthetic appeal but also for their functional properties. The thickness of PVD coatings typically ranges from 0.25 to 10 micrometers, depending on the application and the specific requirements of the product. This thin yet durable coating provides an optimal balance between performance and aesthetics, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

In terms of hardness, PVD coatings are known for their exceptional durability. They can significantly enhance the hardness of stainless steel sheets, making them resistant to scratches and wear. This makes PVD-coated stainless steel sheets an excellent choice for applications that require both durability and aesthetic appeal, such as architectural cladding, interior design, and consumer electronics.
 

 

The Benefits of PVD Coating Finish

 



PVD coatings offer a host of benefits that make them a preferred choice in various industries. They provide excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance, enhancing the lifespan of the product. They also offer a wide range of colors, allowing for greater design flexibility. Moreover, PVD coatings are environmentally friendly, as the process does not produce harmful by-products.
 


Conclusion: Trust in Our Expertise


At our company, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with the best PVD-coated stainless steel sheets in the market, tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Whether you're looking for a luxurious gold finish or a bold black one, we have the technology and expertise to bring your vision to life. With our PVD-coated stainless steel sheets, you can rest assured that you're getting a product that combines beauty, durability, and innovation in one package.

So why wait? Contact us today and let us help you transform your ideas into reality. With our PVD coatings, the possibilities are endless. Experience the magic of PVD today.

To elevate your designs with distinctive finishes, explore our comprehensive decorative stainless steel sheet collection.



Pair our PVD color stainless steel sheets with other surfaces like water ripple stainless steel sheet.



Or etched stainless steel sheets for a striking blend of color and texture.



Additionally, our textured stainless steel sheets can provide depth and sophistication to any project, offering both visual and tactile appeal.



Enhance your spaces with our exquisite finishes, and rely on us to deliver superior quality and craftsmanship that will make your designs stand out. For high standard stainless steel base material request, you can kindly refer to 304 stainless steel, 316L stainless steel.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Blue Hairline Stainless Steel Sheets.