Jet Vapor Deposition (JVD®)

A Breakthrough Coating Technology

Jet Vapor Deposition

Jet Vapor Deposition technology represents a quantum leap in metal coating, offering superior precision and control over traditional methods. This process involves vaporizing zinc within a vacuum chamber, then depositing it onto the steel strip at sonic speeds. The result is a uniform, adaptable coating.

Production and Process Flow

ArcelorMittal’s Kessales site in Belgium exemplifies Jet Vapor Deposition technology, producing 1,000,000 tons of JVD-coated steel annually.

The Jet Vapor Deposition process involves:

  • Feeding Pipe and Regulating Valve: Control the flow of zinc.
  • Ejector and Evaporator: Transform zinc into vapor.
  • Vacuum Chamber and Melting Furnace: Ensure a controlled environment for coating.

The Jet Vapor Deposition line boasts:

  • Maximum Coil Weight: 30 tons
  • Thickness: 0.4 mm to 3 mm
  • Width: 750 mm to 1650 mm
  • Maximum Line Speed: 180 m/min
  • Zinc Coating Thickness: 0.5 μm to 10 μm
  • Total Line Length: 1100 m

Advantages of JVD® Technology

  • Low Carbon Footprint: Powered by electrical energy, reducing environmental impact.
  • High-Speed Coating: Sonic-speed spray allows higher line speeds, minimizing energy consumption.
  • Optimized Surface Quality: Homogeneous surface reduces the need for additional primer thickness.
  • Improved Welding and Forming Properties: Enhances weldability, increases electrode lifetime, and stabilizes laser welding parameters.
  • Customizable Coating Thickness: Precise customization tailored to specific requirements.
  • Process Flexibility: Instantaneous stopping, different sides and thicknesses on the same coil, and selective part coating.

Energy Efficiency and Zinc Yield Optimization

JVD® technology is renowned for exceptional energy efficiency with a vacuum process as the main energy consumer. It achieves a nearly perfect zinc yield of 99.5%, a significant improvement over traditional hot dip galvanizing processes. This high efficiency is due to uniform zinc deposition and minimal zinc oxide dross production, facilitating easier recycling.

Comparative Analysis of Product Properties

JVD® stands out compared to HDG and EG in several aspects:

  • Surface Quality: Superior for applications requiring a perfect finish.
  • Coating Homogeneity: Ensures consistent performance.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Enhanced even with thinner layers.
  • Weldability and Formability: Improved with reduced powdering effects.
  • Paint Adhesion: Better paint adhesion reduces the need for thick primer layers.

Applications in Industry and Automotive Markets

JVD® technology is ideal for various applications requiring high-quality coatings:

  • Automotive Industry: High-strength steel and parts, providing superior surface quality and durability.
  • Home Appliances: Durable finishes and enhanced aesthetics for visible parts.
  • Industrial Applications: Coating construction materials, electronic casings, and internal structural parts.

Environmental Benefits

  • Reduction in Hazardous Emissions: Minimal emissions due to vacuum-based process.
  • Material Utilization and Waste Reduction: Nearly perfect zinc yield and minimal waste.
  • Recycling and Lifecycle Impact: Easier recycling of pure zinc scrap, contributing to a circular economy.
  • Lower Carbon Footprint: Reduced energy consumption and emissions align with climate goals.
  • Impact on Water Resources: Dry process eliminates water usage, conserving water and preventing contamination.

Jet Vapor Deposition (JVD®) marks a significant leap in metal coating technology, offering substantial benefits over traditional galvanization methods. Its innovative approach, high-speed application, energy efficiency, and superior product quality position JVD® as a valuable technology for the steel industry’s future. JVD® also represents a major advancement in environmentally sustainable metal coating processes, aligning with broader environmental protection and sustainable industrial practices.