Maximizing performance by combining complementary treatments

In the aerospace industry, where corrosion resistance and precision are essential, Argos ST has proven it can meet complex requirements by combining technologies. In particular, we have worked on the treatment of aluminium discs, key components of a valve adapter. These discs were treated to make them resistant to harsh conditions without compromising their electrical conductivity, an essential property for their correct functioning in aerospace applications. To meet these requirements, Argos ST proposed a dual process, combining two high-performance treatments: chemical nickel plating, followed by tri-chrome passivation with Surtec 650.

Combined treatments for outstanding performance

An integrated approach was adopted to meet corrosion-resistance requirements and the need to maintain electrical conductivity, with the combination of two treatments. Let’s take a closer look.

Chemical nickel plating: resistance and durability

The first treatment applied to the aluminium discs, after masking of certain areas, was nickel plating. This chemical process gave the components a protective coating with a thickness of 40 microns. Chemical nickel plating enables improved corrosion resistance, protecting the component from atmospheric phenomena in harsh environments such as those encountered in the aerospace industry. Nickel plating also increased the surface hardness, making the discs resistant to mechanical wear, an essential characteristic for components subject to operational stresses. This coating also offered highly uniform application, ensuring the quality and precision of the discs, which is fundamental for precision mechanical components such as those used on valve adapters.

Tri-chrome passivation with Surtec 650: protection and conductivity

After nickel plating, the discs were treated with Surtec 650, a tri-chrome passivation process, to further improve corrosion protection. Surtec 650 is an advanced technology that provides outstanding protection against corrosion without compromising the electrical properties of components, maintaining their conductivity, an essential requirement for this project. Unlike anodizing, which creates an insulating layer, Surtec 650 forms a protective layer that preserves the electrical properties of the aluminium, making the discs ideal for use in applications where conductivity is essential. Furthermore, Surtec 650 improved component durability, guaranteeing a high level of resistance to chemicals and environmental phenomena.

Optimized performance and resistance

Our technical team’s suggestion to combine these two technologies, both applied at Argos ST facilities, provided a host of benefits:

• Advanced corrosion resistance: the combination of chemical nickel plating and Surtec 650 ensured that the components had outstanding protection against corrosion, extending their useful life even in highly demanding environments.
• Maintenance of electrical conductivity: Surtec 650 enabled the electrical conductivity of the aluminium to be maintained, which is essential for the functional integrity of aerospace components.
• Greater durability and reliability: chemical nickel plating improved the surface hardness of the discs, providing greater resistance to wear and mechanical stress, without compromising their precision dimensions.

Integrating technologies: a competitive advantage

Argos ST’s strength lies in its ability to integrated different technologies in a single solution. The combination of chemical nickel plating and Surtec 650, for example, provides complete and lasting protection, meeting specific corrosion-resistance requirements and electrical specifications without compromise. Relying on a single supplier for multiple solutions, customers can simplify the production process, reduce the number of parties involved and optimise delivery times. As part of a group offering multiple complementary technologies, Argos ST can provide custom solutions, guaranteeing high performance in every treatment phase through strict quality control, ensuring consistently optimal results for every component treated. Use of multiple technologies makes it possible to meet specific customer requirements more efficiently and more cost effectively, offering competitive advantages in technical and production terms.