Oerlikon recently installed a new Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) equipment at the Fundão plant in Portugal, a center of excellence for surface treatments. It is designed, manufactured and engineered by Oerlikon Balzers, allowing Oerlikon Riri and Oerlikon Fineparts to treat high volumes with impeccable quality and homogenous surface finish.
Oerlikon Riri and Oerlikon Fineparts are further expanding the use of their advanced PVD processes, leveraging Oerlikon Balzers’ technological expertise. This will contribute to creating the leading provider of high-quality, environmentally-friendly finishes for the luxury sector, balancing style, performance and sustainable improvement.
PVD is a thin-film coating process that distinguishes itself from traditional galvanic techniques, offering numerous benefits not only from a technical and aesthetic standpoint, but also from an environmental one. After conducting an internal analysis to compare the differences between a PVD-treated stainless steel accessory and electroplating-treated brass version, PVD resulted in a 76% reduction in overall environmental impact measured in kg CO₂ equivalent.
In fact, the process eliminates water usage entirely, achieving a 100% saving in water consumption. This also results in a significant decrease in waste (97%) and in the use of precious metals, contributing to an 83% reduction in CO₂ emissions related to raw material sourcing and processing.
“In a challenging time for the luxury market,” says Katharina Rick, President of the Luxury business sector at Oerlikon “our efforts are focused on minimizing our environmental footprint while providing our clients with finishes that meet the highest standards of beauty and durability.”
Oerlikon Riri
Oerlikon Riri