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Proceedings

Three paths to the perfect surface

To achieve a perfect surface, Aurolia primarily utilizes three electroplating processes. With their assistance, we can positively influence many important properties of the material. Aurolia surfaces are harder, more durable, more wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. Our customers specify the requirements, and we create a surface layer that precisely meets their needs, from functionality to texture and appearance.

Unsere Verfahren im Überblick

Hard anodizing

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Anodizing

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Chemical nickel plating

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Further processing

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Mechanical surfaces

Description

To achieve the desired properties of a surface, galvanization alone is not sufficient. Various pre- and post-treatment steps open the door to almost unlimited surface characteristics. The interplay of mechanical, chemical, and electrochemical processes gives us enormous scope for design. We implement many measures with the help of our own facilities, while others are realized with trusted partners. This gives you the freedom to easily define the properties of your surface as desired. Together with you, we then find the appropriate path to turn the surface into a super surface!

Hard facts

  • Glass bead blasting
  • Vibratory finishing
  • Brushing
  • Polishing
  • Laser engraving after coating

Glass Bead Blasting

Glass Bead Blasting – Precise Surface Treatment in Electroplating

Glass bead blasting is a proven mechanical surface treatment process widely used in electroplating. In this method, fine glass beads are employed as the blasting medium to specifically clean, smooth, or strengthen metallic surfaces. The impact of the glass beads effectively removes unwanted residues such as rust, oxide layers, or contaminants from the workpiece surface without damaging the material.

A key advantage of glass bead blasting is its gentle surface treatment. Unlike coarse grinding methods, glass bead blasting leaves a uniform, matte finish that serves as an ideal base for further electroplating, such as anodizing or electroless nickel plating. Additionally, the surface strengthening enhances the mechanical durability of the parts, extending their service life.

This method is particularly suited to sensitive materials and complex geometries, as the fine glass beads can evenly reach even hard-to-access areas. It provides optimal preparation for subsequent electroplating processes, significantly improving the adhesion and durability of applied coatings.

In electroplating, glass bead blasting is therefore not only used for cleaning but also for enhancing quality and surface refinement—a precise technique essential for meeting both aesthetic and functional requirements.

Mass finishing

Mass finishing, also known as vibratory finishing, is a mechanical surface treatment process used in electroplating to refine metallic workpieces. During this process, components are placed together with abrasive media and special additives in a vibrating or rotating container. The continuous relative movement between the workpieces and the abrasive media removes material from the surface, resulting in uniform smoothing and cleaning of the parts.

This process is ideal for deburring, edge rounding, and creating a consistent surface texture. Depending on the abrasive media used and the processing time, mass finishing can range from light deburring to intensive surface smoothing. This flexibility allows electroplating companies to adjust surface quality precisely to the requirements of the subsequent coating.

Another advantage of mass finishing is its ability to treat hard-to-reach areas and complex geometries that are challenging with conventional methods. The uniform treatment of all workpiece surfaces ensures that electroplated layers adhere optimally and are applied evenly.

Mass finishing is particularly efficient for processing bulk small parts, as multiple pieces can be treated simultaneously. This makes the process ideal for industrial applications where high quantities of parts need processing.

Thus, in electroplating, mass finishing offers an economical and effective way to enhance the surface quality of workpieces, improve their functionality, and prepare them optimally for subsequent finishing processes.

Polishing

Polishing – High Gloss and Precision in Surface Treatment

Polishing is a crucial surface treatment process in electroplating, used for components that require a flawless, shiny, and smooth surface. By skillfully using rotating polishing wheels and fine polishing compounds, material irregularities and micro-scratches are removed. The result is a mirror-smooth surface that meets both aesthetic and functional demands.

The polishing process is particularly important for preparing components for electroplated coatings, such as chrome, gold, or nickel plating. A perfectly polished surface ensures optimal adhesion and even distribution of the applied layers, leading not only to an attractive appearance but also to increased corrosion resistance and durability of the parts.

Depending on the material and desired outcome, different polishing techniques are used, ranging from coarse pre-polishing processes to fine high-gloss polishing. By combining polishing wheels, compounds, and specialized machinery, surface quality can be precisely tailored to the requirements of subsequent electroplating.

Polishing is also essential when the highest optical standards are required, such as for decorative parts in the jewelry industry or precision components in medical technology. Here, it’s not just about achieving a high gloss but also about reducing surface roughness to ensure functionality and hygiene.

Thus, in electroplating, polishing is a key technique not only for enhancing the aesthetic value of components but also for ensuring their functionality and quality over the long term.

Brushing

Brushing – Precise Surface Preparation in Electroplating

Brushing is a mechanical surface treatment process commonly used in electroplating to prepare metallic workpieces. Using rotating brushes made of fine wire bristles or specialized plastics, surfaces are carefully cleaned and smoothed. Rust, contaminants, burrs, or irregularities are removed to create a uniform, clean surface ideal for subsequent coating processes.

Unlike more abrasive techniques, brushing offers a gentle and controlled approach that does not aggressively attack the material surface. This method allows for precise treatment of delicate materials or complexly shaped components without altering or damaging their geometry. The fine texture created by brushing also enhances the adhesion of electroplated layers, such as anodizing, electroless nickel, or hard anodizing.

Brushing also offers the possibility of achieving targeted decorative effects. By selecting different types and hardnesses of brushes, the surface appearance can be varied, creating matte or slightly shiny finishes. This flexibility provides designers and engineers in electroplating with additional options to combine aesthetic and functional requirements.

Thus, brushing is an indispensable technique in electroplating, not only ensuring a clean, smooth surface but also laying the foundation for high-quality, durable coatings.

Laser Marking

Laser Marking – Precise Labeling After Coating

Laser marking is a modern process used in electroplating to precisely label and customize components after coating. Using a focused laser beam, targeted modifications are made to the component surface to create permanent markings, such as logos, serial numbers, QR codes, or technical information. This technique offers the highest precision and produces clear, abrasion-resistant markings that remain durable even under high stress.

A major advantage of laser marking is its versatility. The process can be applied to various surfaces, including anodized aluminum, nickel-plated, or gold-plated components, without damaging the underlying layer. The laser beam selectively removes or thermally alters material layers to create high-contrast markings that stand out visually.

Especially in electroplating, where surface quality and aesthetics are critical, laser marking excels due to its contactless nature. No mechanical forces are exerted on the workpiece, minimizing the risk of damage. Additionally, complex geometries and delicate components can be marked accurately and uniformly.

Laser marking allows for individualized adjustments to the markings, from functional information and safety labels to decorative elements. This process enables companies to mark their components in a high-quality manner, meeting traceability and quality assurance requirements.

Thus, in electroplating, laser marking is an ideal solution for precisely, durably, and aesthetically marking coated components.

PTFE

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) in Electroplating

PTFE is frequently used in combination with metal layers in electroplating to create specific surface properties. In surface finishing, particularly in chemical or electrochemical coating processes, PTFE enhances the frictional properties of the coated surface, increases its corrosion resistance, and optimizes wear protection.

In electroplating processes, such as electroless nickel plating, PTFE can be incorporated into the nickel coating to form a nickel-PTFE layer. This layer combines the advantages of nickel, such as hardness and corrosion resistance, with the lubricating and non-stick properties of PTFE.

Advantages of a PTFE-Enhanced Electroplated Coating:

  • Reduced Friction: PTFE particles create an extremely smooth, lubricated surface, which is particularly important in mechanical components.
  • Wear Resistance: The combination of hard nickel and PTFE improves resistance to mechanical stress and abrasion.
  • Corrosion Resistance: PTFE enhances resistance to chemical influences and provides additional protection against oxidation.
  • Non-Stick Properties: Surfaces with PTFE additives are less prone to accumulating dirt or residues, which is advantageous in industries such as automotive and aerospace.

Applications of PTFE-Based Electroplated Coatings:

  • Mechanical Engineering: Bearings, valves, and other components that require sliding motion benefit from nickel-PTFE coatings.
  • Electronics: Components that require low friction and high durability.
  • Food Industry: Parts that come into contact with food can benefit from the non-stick properties.
  • Automotive and Aerospace Industries: Components such as pistons, cylinders, or valves are often coated with a nickel-PTFE layer to enhance their longevity and efficiency.

In Summary: PTFE in electroplating is used to provide surfaces with excellent lubrication, high wear protection, and improved corrosion resistance, making it ideal for applications in high-stress industrial environments.

Gold plating

Our innovative gold plating technique endows components with an exceptionally durable and premium surface. By applying a targeted gold layer, we provide components not only with a refined appearance but also with effective protection against corrosion and wear. Complying with ASTM G 45204C Type 1 Grade C standards, our gold coatings are ideally suited for electronic and electrical applications.

Benefits of Gold Plating at a Glance:

  • High Durability: Reliably protects against external influences and enhances longevity.
  • Optimal Layer Thickness: Ensures maximum performance and robustness.
  • Purity over 99.7%: Guarantees top results and high functionality.
  • High Hardness: With 120-190 HV, it offers exceptional resistance.
  • Minimal Contact Resistance: Less than 10 mΩ, ideal for sensitive applications.

Choose gold-plated surfaces that excel in both function and quality. Elevate your components with our gold plating technology and enjoy long-lasting durability and outstanding performance.