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.