DESCRIPTION, INNOVATION AND ADVANTAGES

Low-wear anodized aluminum is invented by impregnating anodized surfaces with specific fillers for industrial applications such as pistons, bearings, rails and other rubbing parts in mechanical systems. Hard (Type III) anodizing of aluminum alloys is developed to produce nanoporous anodic coatings with thicknesses up to 100 μm or higher. Industrial aluminum alloys of 6000 and 7000 series are most preferable for anodizing. Anodized aluminum surfaces are impregnated with our patented AlumaShield coating, which is able to penetrate into the nanopores of anodic coating. Unlike barrier coatings, impregnated fillers within the nanopores can migrate into the friction zone thus reducing wear of the anodized aluminum surfaces. AlumaShield Impregnated surfaces also demonstrate high thermal stability up to 160°C. Combining the aluminum alloy and AlumaShield filler can improve the tribological performance of anodic coatings 20 times or more compared to commercial lubricants.

CURRENT STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT

Technology validated in small-series production.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES RIGHTS STATUS

In-house know-how, European patent application “METHOD FOR REACTIVE IMPREGNATION OF ANODIC ALUMINA COATING”, No. EP23168208.9.

TYPE AND ROLE OF PARTNER SOUGHT

Industrial, aviation, and automotive companies.