What is Metallisation?
Metallisation is the process of applying a thin metal coating to a surface, often non-metallic, to enhance conductivity, protect against corrosion, improve appearance, or create reflective properties. Metallisation is widely used in electronics, automotive, and packaging industries.
Common metallisation methods include:
Uses an electric current to deposit metal from a solution onto a substrate.
Vaporises metal in a vacuum and deposits it onto the surface.
Similar to PVD but uses chemical reactions to deposit metal from a gas to vapour.
Sprays molten metal onto a surface.
Bombards a metal target with ions to release atoms that coat the surface.
Why Cooling Matters in Metallisation
Metallisation methods often involve significant heat generation. Process cooling is essential for maintaining optimal temperatures, ensuring coating consistency, improving product quality, and protecting both equipment and operators.
Cooling systems help to avoid thermal damage and reduce process downtime, making them a vital part of metallisation setups.
Recirculating Chillers in Metallisation
Recirculating chillers are commonly used to deliver precise temperature control during metallisation. They remove excess heat, maintain thermal stability, and recirculate heat transfer fluids efficiently.
Their compact design, reduced water consumption, and energy efficiency make them a popular choice – though they do require regular maintenance and come with a higher initial investment.
Water-to-Water Heat Exchangers
Water-to-water heat exchangers offer an effective way to transfer heat between two circuits without mixing fluids. They are especially useful for isolating sensitive chemicals, recovering energy, and maintaining process temperatures.
While efficient and low-maintenance, they may require more space and carry higher setup costs.
Heat Transfer Fluids in Cooling Systems
The effectiveness of a cooling system relies heavily on the right heat transfer fluid. Key selection criteria include thermal stability, operating temperature range, viscosity, heat transfer performance, and environmental safety.
Common types include:
Ideal for applications with low temperature risks due to high heat capacity.
Provide freeze protection; propylene glycol is preferred for lower toxicity.
Offer high chemical stability and thermal performance in demanding environments.
Used in high-temperature systems where lubrication is also beneficial.
