Metal components used for seat belts must meet high requirements in terms of mechanical strength and long-term stability. Traditionally, electroplated protective layers of nickel and chromium are used here. In an effort to use more environmentally friendly materials in compliance with REACH, ZF Lifetec has upgraded its in-house electroplating facility and switched to an advanced chromium(III)-based system.
Cooperation between Schlötter and ZF Lifetec
Since Dr.-Ing. Max Schlötter GmbH & Co KG has been developing chromium(III)-based electrolyte systems for many years, ZF Lifetec called in Schlötter to implement this innovation in 2023. The changeover required various tests and adjustments to the system technology so that the properties of the previous coatings could be achieved. Schlötter took on the necessary conversion work. Schlötter offers the newly developed chromium(III) process under the brand name Chrombad Slotochrom BC 4130.
From raw material to coating
The metal parts are ground at ZF Lifetec for pre-treatment. The modern mass finishing process reduces the machining times of the components and prepares the surfaces for optimum electroplating. In the fully automated electroplating lines, the parts are then degreased, nickel-plated and finally chrome-plated in order to meet the high requirements for corrosion resistance and aesthetic appearance.