Enhancing surface quality
May 1st 2007 Burton-on-Trent-based Knott-
Avonride specialises in production
of trailer couplings, brakes and
axles for customers across Europe.
Assemblies have to operate in all
weathers and so it is essential they
are engineered to high standards,
especially the final surface finish.
Knott experienced problems with
achieving a consistent, corrosionfree
zinc-plated finish on a cast SG
iron component. The porosity of
the cast part was affecting the
plating, causing it to deteriorate
and creating a dark mottled stain
which showed through the
passivate after only a short time of
exposure to the elements.
The Armourcote division of
Surface Technology came up with
a solution. The company's Andy
Shears says "Our particular skills
and knowledge enable us to
formulate a specific method of
plating the Knott components,
using existing process layout but
with minor changes to the pretreatment
and process chemistry."
The finish has proved its worth in
terms of durability and appearance
and has enabled Knott to ensure a
consistent production rate. More articles from Surface Technology Plc: | 
