Balzers, Liechtenstein, 10 February 2017 – The Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences in Krefeld, Germany, is making use of Oerlikon Balzers expertise to train the new generation of surface engineering experts. End of 2016 a METAPLAS.DOMINO MINI coating system was delivered to the university’s surface engineering laboratory.
The METAPLAS.DOMINO MINI coating system offers an almost limitless range of coatings
The surface engineering laboratory at the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences was opened in 2011. The Surface Technology Applied Research (STAR) skills centre, which focuses on training graduate and undergraduate students for the industry, is also based in this laboratory. The previous equipment – a second-hand system from an industrial plant – no longer met the demands of modern industry. “As the METAPLAS.DOMINO MINI combines source technologies such as arc evaporation, sputtering and high-ionization processes, it is the ideal solution for the demands of our practically-oriented teaching programs”, explains Professor Markus Lake, director of the laboratory.
This move makes Oerlikon Balzers the exclusive industry partner for the laboratory. After installation and commissioning, laboratory staff and students will be trained in how to use the METAPLAS.DOMINO MINI. “The aim is to use this collaboration in future for working on new technologies and developments”, explains Marc Desrayaud, Head of Oerlikon Balzers Industrial Solutions.
In addition to the new system, an automated ultrasonic cleaning system has also been ordered, to be delivered shortly. “By also integrating the possibilities of pre and post-treatment we can give our students a broad training in how the whole of the coating process chain works”, said a delighted Professor Lake. Official commissioning is scheduled to take place at a ceremony in early summer.