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The INUBIA system allows seam-
less integration of ePD technology
into the industry’s production lines.
M
etallized plastic parts have the same high quality
appeal as chromium-plated metal components.
To date, galvanic processes have been chiefly
used in their manufacture: this involves the application
of metal ions to plastic parts in an electrolytic bath. Gal-
vanization however requires both hexavalent chromium
(CrVI) and nickel.
Functional and environmentally-friendly
Manufacturers from the automotive, electronics and
sanitary industries are accordingly searching for sustain-
able alternatives. Oerlikon Balzers ePD technology ena-
bles eco-friendly, cost-efficient and resource conserv-
ing metallization of plastic parts. ePD moreover allows
plastic parts to be given not only a high-gloss or matte
metallic appearance, but also attractive metallic colour
variations, as well as functional features, such as config-
urable light or radio transparency. The highest functional
and decorative demands of industry and consumers are
thus exceeded in many areas.
The so-called ePD process (embedded PVD for De-
sign Parts) is environmentally-friendly, and requires no
harmful chromium compounds or nickel. ePD generates
no heavy metal waste or contaminated water. “We are
working to get the European Chemical Agency ECHA,
which is responsible for REACH implementation, to
recognize ePD as an alternative process to galvaniza-
tion and are confident of success,” said Rüdiger Schäfer,
General Manager ePD at Oerlikon Balzers, confidently.
Three layers for high stability
The ePD process applies three layers, with the metal
layer sandwiched between two layers of lacquer: the
lowest layer smooths out unevenness created by injec-
Zanini Auto Group
The Zanini Auto Group with
headquarters in Barcelona (Spain)
has a 50 year track record as a
specialist for the development and
manufacture of plastic components
for the automotive industry and as a
full service provider of external and
interior vehicle parts. The company
has more than 900 employees.
Nanogate AG
Nanogate is a leading international
integrated system house for high
performance coatings with around
550 employees. The group with
headquarters in Göttelborn (Germany)
enables the programming and
integration of additional functions in
materials and surfaces.