Ion plated aluminium coatings for the corrosion protection of steel

Ion plating or ion vapour deposition has become a widely accepted process for the application of dense, uniform and very adherent aluminium coatings for corrosion protection. Because of its performance advantages, this process is expected to replace cadmium electroplating in the near future. Recently, General Engineering Radcliffe Ltd took out a UK licence from McDonnell Aircraft Corporation to manufacture commercial machines called ‘Ivadizer’ for applying aluminium coatings for corrosion protection. The purpose of this paper is to present the physical and technical aspects of the ion plating process and its unique characteristics in corrosion prevention.