Avoiding Hydrogen Embrittlement: Innovation in Metal Coatings

In surface treatment for metals, one of the main challenges is avoiding hydrogen embrittlement, a phenomenon that can severely compromise the strength and durability of materials, especially high-strength steels. This issue occurs when hydrogen atoms penetrate the metal, weakening its internal structure and increasing the risk of unexpected fractures under mechanical stress.

What Causes Hydrogen Embrittlement?

1. Aggressive Chemical Processes: Operations such as acid cleaning or certain electrolytic coatings can cause metals to absorb hydrogen.
2. Environmental Exposure: Corrosive conditions, such as high humidity or certain chemicals, can also facilitate hydrogen ingress into the metal structure.

Impact on Materials

The presence of hydrogen can significantly reduce a metal’s ductility, meaning its ability to deform without fracturing. This makes metal parts more susceptible to structural failures, especially in critical applications requiring high mechanical strength and reliability.

Our Process: Hydrogen-Free Pre-Treatment and Advanced Coating

At Torresguma, we’ve developed a process that ensures metal parts are protected from pre-treatment to final coating:

1. Amorphous Phosphating: Our pre-treatment process uses amorphous phosphating, which stands out as a hydrogen-free solution. This method prepares the metal surface to receive the coating without the risk of embrittlement and ensures excellent adhesion.
2. Zinc Flake Coating: We apply an advanced coating that not only protects against corrosion but also prevents hydrogen absorption during the process, safeguarding the structural integrity of the parts.

Key Benefits of Our Process

• Guaranteed Structural Integrity: Thanks to amorphous phosphating and Zinc Flake coating, parts maintain their original strength and flexibility.
• Reliability in Extreme Conditions: Ideal for components subjected to high mechanical stress.
• Compatibility with Advanced Materials: Specifically designed for high-strength steels and precision technical applications.
• Corrosion Protection: Zinc Flake provides superior solutions in harsh environments, making it an optimal choice for the automotive industry and other critical applications.

Why Choose a Hydrogen-Free Coating Process?

Avoiding hydrogen embrittlement not only improves the performance of parts but also reduces risks associated with unexpected failures in critical structures. This level of protection is essential for industries prioritizing safety, durability, and long-term quality.

At Torresguma, we take pride in offering advanced solutions that combine amorphous phosphating and Zinc Flake coating, ensuring every treated part meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.