The compatibility of coatings with different metal alloys: Wire drawing solutions

In the wire drawing and metalworking industry, the choice of the most suitable coating for capstans, pulleys and other mechanical components is a crucial factor in ensuring efficiency and durability.

The compatibility between the coating and the processed material significantly influences the performance of the process, from smoothness to wear resistance. In this area, Paganoni, with its advanced coatings such as Coldside® based on tungsten carbides, is a valuable resource for industries that process steel, copper and special alloys.

Selecting the ideal coating for different materials

Each metal alloy has unique characteristics, such as hardness, thermal conductivity and sensitivity to corrosion, which must be considered when selecting a coating.

Steel: Strength and hardness

Steel, one of the most widely used alloys in industrial processes, requires coatings that offer wear resistance and corrosion protection. Electroless nickel coatings are ideal for these applications due to their hardness and ability to form a barrier against oxidation.

For particularly heavy-duty applications, Paganoni’s Coldside® stands out for its combination of extreme hardness and low coefficient of friction. This coating guarantees a longer service life for capstans and pulleys, reducing the risk of deformation or surface damage during contact with steel.

Copper: Smoothness and precision

Copper and its alloys, such as bronze and brass, are relatively soft but highly conductive materials used in applications ranging from electrical cables to decorative elements. Smoothness is essential to avoid scratches or deformation during drawing.

Ceramic coatings, such as those based on zirconium oxide, offer a smooth and durable surface that facilitates the passage of copper through machinery. The ability of ceramic coatings to withstand high temperatures makes them particularly suitable for drawing thin wires, where the heat generated by friction can be a problem. Paganoni applies these coatings using advanced techniques, guaranteeing uniformity and high performance.

Special alloys: Versatility and advanced protection

Special alloys, such as those used in aerospace or the medical industry, combine complex mechanical and chemical properties. These materials often require highly specific coatings to protect both the machined component and the machinery involved.

Paganoni’s Coldside® is an excellent choice for these applications due to its wear resistance and ability to maintain optimum performance even under extreme conditions. In addition, Paganoni’s expertise allows coatings to be customised to specific customer requirements, ensuring compatibility and superior results.

Challenges in machining composite materials

Machining composite materials, which combine two or more materials with different properties, presents additional challenges. Composite materials often generate a non-uniform abrasive action, which can cause accelerated wear on capstans and pulleys.

In these cases, the selection of the coating must consider not only the material characteristics, but also the dynamics of the production process. For example:

• Uneven wear: Coldside® offers exceptional hardness that protects mechanical surfaces from uneven wear, increasing equipment life.
• Thermal sensitivity: Paganoni’s ceramic coatings resist the high temperatures generated by friction, preventing alterations to mechanical surfaces and ensuring stable and precise machining.
• Chemical compatibility: Chemical nickel coatings provide excellent corrosion resistance, which is essential for composite materials exposed to chemicals during the machining process.

The benefits of Paganoni’s advanced solutions

Thanks to decades of experience and a focus on innovation, Paganoni is able to provide advanced coatings that meet the specific challenges posed by different metal alloys. The use of state-of-the-art technologies guarantees:

• Uniform adhesion on all types of surfaces, even the most complex ones.
• Extended componentlife, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
• Optimisation of production performance, thanks to coatings that improve smoothness and reduce the coefficient of friction.

A reliable partner for the drawing industry

The compatibility of coatings with different metal alloys is a crucial aspect in ensuring efficiency and longevity in industrial processes. With solutions such as Coldside® and advanced ceramic coatings, Paganoni positions itself as a leader in the industry, offering comprehensive and customised technical support. Investing in the choice of the ideal coating not only protects machinery, but is a strategic step towards innovation and competitiveness.