Injection Molding Coatings

Mold release coatings are essential for preventing materials like plastics, rubber, or composites from sticking to molds during the manufacturing process. These coatings improve the efficiency of mold operations, reduce material buildup, and extend the lifespan of molds. There are several types of mold coatings, each offering unique benefits for specific applications.

1. Plating and Coating: Electroplating or chemical processes create a protective metal coating, such as thin dense chrome or electroless nickel, on the mold. These coatings are primarily chosen for corrosion and wear resistance.
2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): CVD coatings, such as silicon carbide or boron nitride, are chemically reactive layers that enhance the mold’s hardness and resistance to wear and heat.
3. Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD): PVD forms a thin film on the mold using materials like TiN or TiCN. These coatings increase hardness and protect the mold from wear and abrasion.
4. Oxidation Treatment: This method creates an oxide layer on the mold surface to increase corrosion resistance and surface hardness. Common techniques include anodizing and phosphating.
5. Thermal Spray: This technique uses a spray gun to apply melted metal or alloy materials, such as ceramics, carbide, or metals. It forms a hard, wear-resistant layer that improves mold durability.
6. Polymers: Polymer coatings like polyether or polyurethane are applied to molds to provide excellent wear and corrosion resistance.

Diamond coatings, including diamond chrome coatings, are used in various industries for their exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and thermal conductivity. Key applications include:

Aerospace: 

• Engine Components: Enhances wear resistance and reduces friction in high-temperature, high-pressure environments. 
• Landing Gear: Protects against corrosion and mechanical stress. 

Automotive: 

• Engine Parts: Improves performance and reduces wear on pistons, valves, and camshafts. 
• Gear Systems: Increases efficiency and lifespan of gears and transmissions. 

Cutting Tools: 

• Drills and Saws: Ideal for cutting hard materials due to superior hardness and sharpness. 
• Machining Tools: Enhances tool life and cutting performance. 

Medical Devices: 

• Surgical Instruments: Provides a hard, wear-resistant surface for precision tools. 
• Implants: Enhances biocompatibility and resistance to wear and corrosion. 

Plastic Injection Molding: 

• Molds and Dies: Reduces wear from abrasive materials and improves part release. Corrects degassing problems. 

Electronic Components: 

• Semiconductor Manufacturing: Protects wafers and components, improving thermal management. 
• Heat Sinks: Aids in heat dissipation in electronic devices. 

Oil and Gas Industry: 

• Drilling Equipment: Protects against wear and corrosion in harsh environments. 
• Pumps and Valves: Extends service life of components exposed to abrasive materials. 

Food Processing: 

• Processing Equipment: Improves wear resistance and maintains hygiene standards by eliminating contamination potential as a crack-free surface. 

General Industrial Applications: 

• Bearings: Reduces friction and increases wear resistance. 
• Hydraulic Components: Enhances performance in demanding environments. 

While Armoloy coatings can be applied to complex geometries, some extreme shapes may require special considerations or alternative coating methods to ensure complete coverage.

Certification to many industry and supplier specifications is available, including AMS 2438 and AMS 2460, depending on the location.  In addition, the Armoloy network has fulfillment centers with Quality Management Systems accredited to NADCAP, ISO 9001, and AS9100 requirements.