Protection and functionalization through local surface coating

Electrochemical processes – such as anodizing – are processes that are typically carried out in baths. The components to be treated are completely immersed and subjected to voltage in a chemical solution. This allows surfaces to be coated and thus functionalized respectively aluminum surfaces to be oxidized in a targeted manner. Such coatings, for example, considerably improve further corrosion resistance.

Efficient localized surface coating for components

Depending on the component dimensions, surface coating today requires correspondingly large baths. Areas that are not to be treated must be masked in a labor-intensive process. Such baths are complex and expensive to operate, especially for large components, and must comply with numerous conditions requiring approval.

Fraunhofer IFAM has transferred a process for local conversion process control into a fully automated robotic application. This enables the production of layers in the micrometer range in a process-safe manner specifically where they are needed. With a low use of resources, this not only improves the service life and reliability of components, but also reduces process time and approval requirements.

From coupon level to large 3D components – robotic end effectors for the customized automated coating process

The researchers for Automation and Production Technology in Stade offer customized coating options for local applications, which are specially designed for the precise and efficient surface treatment of components of different sizes and shapes. The developed robotic end effectors for local coating integrate advanced technologies and extensive peripherals to meet the highest quality standards and cover a wide range of requirements. Components ranging from small coupon levels to 3 meter long, curved 2D and 3D components can be prototypically treated by Fraunhofer IFAM in order to prove suitability for the customer-specific process.

The following equipment and peripherals are available to Fraunhofer IFAM at the Stade Surface Center for implementing the wide range of possible applications:

• Lightweight robot on a 6 m linear axis with load cell for precise motion sequences and accurate processing
• Flexible component fixtures for small to large components in 2D and 3D contoursr
• Coating end effectors for precise and controlled surface treatment of a wide range of applications
• Multi-stage rinsing device for the termination of the chemical process, the neutralization of the chemical reagents and the neutralization of the component surfacee
• Closed suction for liquid media to separate the process from the environment and safely remove electrolytes and cleaning agents
• Surface activation end effectors for targeted pre-treatment of the surfaces
• Cleaning end effector for clean surfaces before and after the activation process

The state-of-the-art equipment at Fraunhofer IFAM guarantees high-quality results and efficient treatment of components. This makes it possible not only to further develop local wet-chemical processes tailored to customer specification, but also to make them usable for numerous industries, including aviation, aerospace, automotive industry, rail vehicle construction, medical technology and many others.