Low Temperature Surface Treatment

An innovative new alternative to phosphate finishing is low temperature surface treatment

Low temperature surface treatment operations are an excellent solution to the problem of rising energy costs and increasingly strict environmental controls. Traditional metal finishing processes often require excessive energy input to achieve the high temperature necessary to create adequate conversion coatings. A low temperature surface treatment alternative to iron phosphate is Vanchem’s line of organic conversion coatings like our GREENCOAT RF.

Low temperature surface treatment coatings may or may not require a seal afterwards to maximize adhesion and reduce corrosion (see RINSEAL 7 & RINSEAL 9). Regarding corrosion performance, organic conversion coatings are equivalent to conventional iron phosphate coatings.

These chemicals create less sludge, leading to lower maintenance and decreased costs. The waste that arises from Vanchem’s low temperature surface treatment products is easily treated through a neutralization waste treatment system. The waste can be treated traditionally (see waste water treatment). Less water is also required for rinsing, since there are fewer solids present after pretreating with low temperature surface treatment.

Vanchem also has a line of low temperature iron phosphate cleaner-coaters, like our FOSTEX JM and FOSTEX JMF. These products were formulated to operate between 100-110F instead of the traditional 125-150F. The unique surfactant blends prevents foaming at low temperatures but is still capable of cleaning mill oils and stamping lubricants using less energy.

It is clear how manufacturers can benefit from low temperature surface treatment. They save money on energy, maintenance and sludge removal. The best treatment method will vary depending on the customer requirement. The shift today in manufacturing facilities toward using less energy and generally being more environmentally friendly is forcing us all too seriously explore the potential advantages in low temperature surface treatment.

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