Technical Introduction to Surface Engineering

Surface engineering refers to a wide range of technologies designed to modify the surface properties of metallic and non-metallic components for specific and sometimes unique engineering purposes. Almost all manufactured items ranging from videotape to furniture have had their surfaces "engineered" in one way or another. These surface modifications can be broadly classified into processes that:

• Improve corrosion resistance to extend useful component life
• Improve wear resistance to extend useful component life
• Improve the appearance of components to make them more visually attractive
• Impart special properties such as lubricity enhancement, non-stick surfaces, etc
• Apply adhesives that secure threaded fasteners in safety critical applications
• Improve electrical conductivity
• Improve solderability
• Metallise plastic component surfaces
• Provide shielding for electromagnetic and radio frequency radiation

Surface engineering processes make an immeasurable contribution to improving the environment and satisfying the consumer's need for better and lower cost components:

• By improving the useful life of components, surface engineering avoids society's more frequent need to exhaust natural resources or consume energy. A painted garden seat looks smarter and lasts much longer than an unpainted one. A gold plated electronic switch outperforms an unplated one.
• Motor vehicles are critically dependent on surface engineered components for their extended warranties and emission controls. A hardened engine valve will last a minimum of five years without replacement.

The SEA can advise on basic design principles and put you in contact with leading industry experts that can help you choose the best option for your design/specification and purchasing needs.