INNOVATIONS: PRESENT&FUTURE
Advancements in Near Neutral pH Descaling Brandon Lloyd Atotech Deutschland GmbH – Berlin, Germany
brandon.lloyd@atotech.com
In order to enhance paint performance in welding and laser cutting operations and to overcome the deficiencies of conventional descaling methods, Atotech introduced UniPrep® AC near neutral descalers.
I
n recent years, consumer’s aesthetic preferences have pushed
and economical method of oxide scale removal is achieved through
manufacturers to transition from traditional plating to more painted
integration of innovative chemistries into the pre-treatment system.
surfaces while the demand for longer lasting products has increased.
Atotech, a global leader in surface finishing innovations, has introduced
For welded and laser cut components, the necessity for improved paint
the UniPrep® AC line of near neutral pH scale removers within the past
coverage and corrosion resistance has likewise increased. The removal of
5 years to overcome the inefficiencies of conventional methods while
oxide scale prior to painting or evaluation in corrosion testing for welds
offering a safer and more sustainable solution for manufacturers.
and laser cuts is often ignored by manufacturers, considered too costly
The importance of oxide scale removal from welds and laser cut areas
or incapable of operating safely. These scales prevent proper adhesion
stems from manufacturer’s desire to improve the overall performance
of paint to the metal surface, resulting in premature failure. Conventional
of a painted part. Oxide scale inhibits paint from adhering properly to a
methods can be effective for scale removal but are unsustainable and
metal surface, and when corrosion or delamination of the paint occurs
have many associated disadvantages. However, the most effective
on welds or laser cuts it reduces the lifetime of the component. For © Atotech
Complete removal of oxide scale with UniPrep® AC, preparing the surface for subsequent paint application.
46
N. 66 - NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 - international PAINT&COATING magazine