alpha 400P

Alpha 400P PVD System

The medium-sized alpha400P arc PVD coating system unites flexibility and a high level of throughput. The system, which was developed as a fast-cycle compact system, is a coating system which is easy to operate with high deposition rates. As well as the deposit of hard coatings, the system is also used for in-situ plasma nitriding. The utilization of the SPCS technology for coatings which satisfy extremely high demands on smoothness and density is likewise possible.

The alpha400P is planned for employment in the following areas:

  • In large coating centers as extension to large-volume coating systems, such as the alpha900P for example
  • In resharpening operations or with tool manufacturer as a system for the efficient coating of hobs, shaper cutters and shank tools – as well as stamping and forming tools
  • In the R&D area, when a PVD arc system with maximum technical bandwidth and flexibility is required
  • In production lines of original part manufacturers (OEM) with a high throughput of similar-type parts as an integral component part of the system

Technology
The results of long-standing technology development as well as a continuous communication exchange with users are integrated into the development of this system generation.
By means of eifeler-PVD technology, the following layers can be deposited reliably and in high quality on the systems:

  • All standard coatings such as TiN, TiCN, CrN, ZrN, CrCN, ZrCN
  • Modern hard coatings such as EXXTRAL®, EXXTRAL® silver, EXXTRAL ®-plus, TOPMATIC, VARIANTIC® and SUPRAL
  • Nano-structured high performance layers such as TIGRAL, CROSAL® and SISTRAL®
  • Optional: All duplex coatings.
  • Optional: SPCS coatings (TiN-ultrafine, TiCN-ultrafine, EXXTRAL®-ultrafine, SISTRAL®-ultrafine

Technique
Powerful vacuum pumps and strong radiation heaters guarantee a rapid conditioning of the tools and therefore short cycle times. The compact housing enables easy access to all important components. An optional plasma source for plasma nitriding and also the equipment with SPCS for the manufacture of “ultrafine” layers are extension possibilities for the alpha400P.

Batching system
The easy-to-use batching system allows the operator an optimal and reliable operating mode. voestalpine eifeler Vacotec offers a comprehensive program of batching means which can be used in all machines. Regardless of whether it involves cover sleeves for shaft tools, plug holders or rotation cups: We have a catalogue which is based on more than 25 years of experience in job coating.

Maintenance and service
The large chamber door offers optimum access for cleaning, loading and maintenance. Access to the data during the entire process is possible, as is the remote control for the online maintenance.

Technical data

Substrate 
Material:tool steel, HSS, cemented carbide, …
Tool diameter:Triple rotation max. Ø 40 mm
 Single rotation max. Ø 450 mm
Tool hight:max. 485 mm
Load:max. 300 kg
  
Coating chamber 
Dimensions:700 x 775 x 750 mm (L x W x H)
  
Vacuum system 
Rotary vane pump:65 m³/h
Roots pump:500 m³/h
Turbomolecular pump:1450 l/s
  
Radiant heater 
Power:2 x 10 kW
Substrate temperature:up to 500 °C
 2 x thermocouples
  
Bias power supply 
Power:30 kW
Voltage:max. 1000 V DC / pulsed DC
  
Arc-evaporator 
Number:12 pieces
Cathode diameter:Ø 100 mm
Current per cathode :max. 125 A
  
Power requirements 
Mains:TN-S 400/230 VAC / +-10% / 50 or 60 Hz
Power:69 kVA