TiZr Passivation, a smarter choice for consistent bonding and welding of aluminium
We have seen a marked increase in enquiries for our Titanium Zirconium (TiZr) passivation process for aluminium in the wake of the recent hexavalent chromate/chromium trioxide ban.
Powdertech Surface Science was a pioneer in the powder coating industry when it became the first site in the UK to implement only chromate-free pre-treatments in 2001; we switched to using TiZr passivation nearly 23 years before the ban of chromium trioxide by the UK Government Health & Safety Executive. Consequently, we have had over 20 years to optimise the process to provide the best results for our customers and the alloys they use.
Our optimised TiZr passivation process is a suitable and preferred alternative to anodising in many instances, and brings important benefits. However, before we delve into those benefits it's important to understand what passivation does to improve aluminium bonding and welding strength.
Instron 34TM-50, an electromechanical universal testing machine, able to perform a wide range of mechanical tests including tensile, compression, bend, peel, tear, friction, and shear testing.
Energy efficiency
The TiZr passivation process creates a stable, protective and chemically modified ‘shield’ layer on aluminium and unlike anodising, TiZr is not reliant on intensive energy-based processes. This makes the process more energy efficient than anodising.
High performance bond strength
Bond strength is often a query from prospective clients and to answer this important issue we have multiple data sources that show bonds created after TiZr passivation are at least as strong as those created after anodising.
Ability to post-weld
Welding can be performed on metal that has been TiZr-pre-treated. After anodising, welding is not possible.
Optimised base metal treatment
At Powdertech Surface Science we use the latest eleven-stage Gardobond® X4591 and Gardobond® X 4707 processes. These are optimised, based on our years of experience and expertise, and will deal with issues in the underlying metal such as porosity and cracks.
Shelf life of 12 months
TiZr pre-treatment provides a shelf life of up to 12 months before any bonding, welding or coating needs to be done on the aluminium, unlike anodising where aluminium needs to be bonded within hours to avoid contamination of the surface.
Handling efficiency
The TiZr process requires less physical handling of the metal.
Please contact us to discuss how TiZr passivation might benefit your project. We can also provide testing services and reports, so you can compare TiZr to the process you are currently using.