DR.-ING. MAX SCHLÖTTER GMBH & CO. KG.

One of the most important application areas for electroplated layers is (cathodic) corrosion protection. By applying a metallic protective layer to components that are susceptible to corrosion or exposed to the weather, their lifespan can be significantly increased. In the area of corrosion protection, metals such as nickel, copper, chrome, and zinc are used, among others.

Anodizing stands for electrolytic oxidation of aluminum and is a process for strengthening the natural oxide layer present on aluminum through anodic oxidation. Unlike traditional electroplating processes, anodizing dissolves the top layer of aluminum and converts it into aluminum oxide. The resulting oxide layer protects the underlying workpiece from corrosion.

The smallest electronic components, such as chips or connectors, present special challenges for electroplating coatings. In addition to the conductor pattern construction in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards, copper processes are used for filling blind microvias (blind holes) and metallizing through holes. Good metal distribution is necessary even with unfavorable geometry. The most important application areas are found in the automotive industry, telecommunications, and consumer goods industry, but also in the field of e-mobility.

Electroplated metal surfaces are found in all areas of daily life and are used not only for technical purposes but also for decorative ones. For this, metallic coatings made of copper, nickel, nickel alloys, chrome, silver, and gold are used, which can offer both a matte and a high-gloss appearance. The most common application areas for decorative surfaces are found in the automotive industry, in sanitary areas for items such as fittings, but also in the consumer goods industry, thus combining functionality with appealing aesthetics.

Schlötter Systems Dr.-Ing. Max Schlötter GmbH & Co. KG is among the leading manufacturers of electroplating systems and surface treatment facilities. With more than 1,000 systems realized since 1957, we draw upon a wealth of experience in production-ready solutions. At Schlötter, we leverage our expertise in systems engineering and surface technology to precisely tailor each system to the coating processes required by our clients. We design and manufacture rack, barrel, and manual systems, modernize facilities, and support our customers with our systems technology services throughout the long lifespan of our systems. Rack systems Barrel systems Manual systems Electroplating systems Anodizing systems Cleaning and pickling systems Chemical systems Printed circuit board systems Plastic electroplating systems Schlötter Systems in All Surface Technology Industries Schlötter systems are utilized for a wide range of surface technology applications.

Pretreatment is a crucial step in electroplating. During the manufacturing of components, oils and fats are used to facilitate the machining of the workpieces and temporarily protect the metal surface from corrosion. Before the electroplating process, these oils and fats must be removed from the workpiece to be plated, as any residues can lead to coating defects. A thorough pretreatment is an important prerequisite for a high-quality coating. Depending on the process sequence, pretreatment may involve multiple steps. In this group of processes, Schlötter offers boiling or hot degreasing, electrolytic degreasing for a variety of base materials such as steel, copper, brass, as well as pretreatments for aluminum and zinc die casting.