Our coatings and where you can use them

Paint

CBE+ offer various types of paint. Each type has different benefits and qualities.

We provide water, oil and solvent-based paints, which are single-based protective coatings. If you require hard-wearing, long-lasting protection, our double-based epoxy paints which also include a hardener may be the right choice for your project. Especially if you want to protect your components against extreme temperatures, abrasion or corrosive fluids.

All our paints are applied by air spraying, this method allows us to meet various finishes and dry film thickness. The finished parts are tested by a DFT gauge (and measured in microns) to ensure quality parts every time.

If you are unsure what type of paint would offer the correct properties to meet your individual needs, our expert team can work with you to help you select the best option.

Electroless Nickel Plating

If you are looking for corrosion protection or wear resistance in marine or similar extreme environments, Electroless Nickel Plating (ENP) may be the best solution. ENP creates a uniform coating when applied to parts with even the most complex geometries. It gives the base material anti-rust properties enabling ferrous substrates, such as carbon and mild steels (or alloys including stainless steel and aluminium) the ability to withstand a variety of temperatures and environments including chemicals, salt water and other abrasive substances. Our team can advise the most suitable levels of Phosphorous based on your requirements.

Diffused Nickel Plating

The main benefit of using Diffused Nickel Plating is its high level of corrosion resistance especially in sub-sea or harsh environments where it can reduce maintenance and offer total cost savings throughout the product lifespan, ideal in remote or difficult-to-reach locations. Data shows it can often extend the longevity of marine equipment to 30 years.

In the process of Diffused Nickel Plating, the component is first submerged in a chemical bath for Electroless Nickel Plating with a solution of a high phosphorus content. After this the part is given a specific heat treatment – typically at a temperature of 610°C. 

This creates a diffusion layer between the Electroless Nickel deposit and the steel substrate, which is typically between 3 to 5 µm, providing an extra layer of protection for your components.

Nickel + PTFE

PTFE Nickel Plating is a composite surface coating that offers benefits for the Automotive, Mould, Engineering and Dye industries. The Polytetrafluoroethylene in the plating solution provides a self-lubricating, low-friction release property paired with a functional wear resistance created by the Nickel. If you require a lubricious, uniform coating that is evenly deposited, this may be the coating for your project.

Here are some great examples of where our customers apply our Nickel + PTFE:

• Threads with tight tolerances.
• High-pressure valves. The PTFE prevents seizing.
• High-speed paper cutting blades. The PTFE reduces friction and prevents the paper from overheating causing a fire risk.

Copper Plating

Another coating we offer is Copper Plating, more specifically, Electrolytic Acid Copper is well-known for its conductive and malleable properties, ideal for electrical, industrial and heating applications.

This solution is popular in the Rail and Medical industries. At CBE+ we frequently use this coating for plating satellite tracking antennas for railways to give the component conductive properties.

Copper plating is a cost-saving option for customers who would have traditionally had to manufacture a component from pure copper. Copper is expensive, so opting to plate a part would significantly reduce the cost, yet still deliver the same properties and quality. Copper plating also provides good anti-galling qualities and can prevent biofouling on components in Marine environments.

The treatment is also a popular choice to coat medical instruments and equipment for operating theatres as it prevents the growth of bacteria and organisms. This is hugely useful in the control of the MRSA infection, a spread of bacteria in medical environments.

What is Aero Maskant Coating?

Aero Maskant coatings are used in scenarios where only specific targeted areas of a part need to be plated.

Aero Maskant Coating is peelable and easy to remove which allows us to temporarily cover selected areas of a component and prevents the plating process in this section. The Maskant can then be removed leaving the component plated in the correct areas. If you have more complex configurations, this may be the right coating for you paired with ENP.

Get in touch with our expert team today to discuss coatings and find the perfect solution to meet your requirements.

Email us at: sales@cbeplus.com or call 01246 529014