In 1964, we developed a unique process to enhance the properties of aluminum alloys. Poly-Lube is more than a coating; it actually becomes an integral part of the metal. The new surface is self-curing and self-lubricating with low friction, high corrosion resistance and dielectric properties superior to hardcoat anodizing. Poly-Lube can add dramatically to the life of your aluminum parts.

Here's Why:

Key Benefits

1. The Poly-Lube surface is harder than file-hard (62 RC varies with alloy).
      Coating hardness is usually determined by a point loading indention test. This test is not an accurate measurement of Poly-Lube hardness because the coating tends to crush under concentrated point loading due to the softer under-metal (aluminum). A more viable and frequently used test to evaluate hardness is the Vickers Micro Hardness Test, which can be converted to a Rockwell equivalency reading.

2. Poly-Lube resists corrosion.
      Our test results on 6061 aluminum indicated that the Poly-Lube treated surface withstood corrosion in a five percent salt spray test for nearly 1000 hours, as opposed to less than 400 hours for hardcoat anodizing - an improvement of 120 percent! results do vary depending on the alloy of the material and the surface finish. we recommend that you submit a sample of the alloy and a description of the finish you intend to use. it will be processed and returned to you for evaluation.

3. Poly-Lube is dialectically stronger than Hardcoat.
      An independent laboratory study revealed that Poly-Lube coated samples break down at 2000 volts - Hard anodize samples break down at 1100 volts. dielectric strength also varies according to alloy and surface finish, especially in the case of cast alloys. We have found that the combination of Poly-Lube and the 5000 series alloy (particulary5052), offers the best dielectric qualities.

4. The Poly-Lube surface has low friction.
      Poly-Lube will provide a significantly lower coefficient of friction than Hard Coat anodizing. There is a direct correlation between coefficient of friction and surface finish - the better the surface finish before Poly-Lube, the lower the coefficient of friction after Poly-Lube.

Capacities

Tank Sizes
      Our current size limits for Hardcoat processing is 11.5' x 5' x 4'.

Materials
      Poly-Lube processing can only be applied to aluminum alloys. Although most aluminum alloys can be processed, those with a low copper content (less than 3.5%) and a low silicon content (less than 5%) are recommended. We've found the best results occur on 6061, 6262 and 7075 wrought alloys; 355, 356 cast alloys and 319 die cast alloys.

Dissimilar Materials
      Aluminum parts which have dissimilar materials installed in them such as steel helicoils, bushings, dowel pins, ect. should not be installed prior to processing however these material can be masked using the best available techniques but this type of processing can only be done at the customers risk.