Electrophoresis | Surface Finishes for Metal and Plastic Parts

Electrophoresis

Description

Electrophoresis is the motion of dispersed particles relative to a fluid under the influence of a spatially uniform electric field. The technique applies a negative charge so proteins move towards a positive charge. It is ultimately caused by the presence of a charged interface between the particle surface and the surrounding fluid.

Technical properties

Colors

Applicable Materials

Alloy steel

Aluminum

Brass

Copper

Mild steel

Spring steel

Stainless steel

Titanium

Tool steel

Example of an Electrophoresis part

Key Steps in the Justway Electrophoresis Process:

Justway's electrophoresis surface treatment is a highly efficient, controlled process for applying uniform, durable, and corrosion-resistant coatings to metal or plastic parts. Using an electric field, charged coating particles are driven to a submerged part, forming a consistent finish, followed by curing to create a, often, black, hydrophobic, and dense protective layer.

Surface Preparation: Parts are cleaned and treated to ensure maximum adhesion of the coating.
Immersion and Charging: The part is submerged in an electrically charged electrophoretic bath.
Electric Field Application: A direct current creates an electric field, forcing charged coating particles in the solution to migrate towards the part's surface.
Electrophoretic Deposition: The coating adheres to the part, forming a uniform layer that penetrates complex geometries.
Dehydration and Densification: Electric osmosis removes moisture from the coating film, turning it from hydrophilic to hydrophobic and increasing its density.
Curing/Finishing: The coated part is cured to achieve the final, hard, and durable finish.

Benefits and Applications:

Uniformity: Delivers a consistent, even, and high-quality coating over the entire surface, including hard-to-reach areas.
Material Suitability: Ideal for alloy steel, aluminum, brass, copper, and mild steel.
Performance: Provides high wear and tear resistance, making it suitable for, for example, automotive and industrial parts.
Aesthetics: Known for producing a high-quality aesthetic finish, often used for protective black coatings.

CNC Machining

Sheet Metal Fabrication

3D Printing

Injection Molding

Vacuum Casting