EPVD technology

Electromagnetically enhanced Physical Vapor Deposition (EPVD) is an advanced coating technique developed by Paradigm Shift Technologies, Inc. This technology enhances traditional physical vapor deposition methods by incorporating electromagnetic fields to improve coating performance, particularly in high-stress applications such as gun barrel coatings.

History

Paradigm Shift Technologies, Inc., a Canadian company founded in 1995, developed the EPVD technology to address the limitations of conventional coating techniques. The company has created a coating method that offers reduced friction, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, thermal stability, chemical resistance, and accuracy. EPVD technology was invented to replace traditional chrome plating by Dr. Gennady Yumshtyk, chief executive officer of Paradigm Shift.

PVD is the primary technology from which EPVD is derived. Likewise, EBPVD is also derived from PVD technology.[24] EBPVD uses an electron beam to heat the source material until it vaporizes, while EPVD is a technique that enhances the PVD process by using electromagnetic fields to influence the deposition process providing unique ability to apply coatings to internal surfaces of long tubular components. This can lead to improved coating characteristics such as hardness, adhesion, uniformity, and non-hazardous.

Paradigm Shift Technologies, Inc. is the primary developer of EPVD technology. The company collaborates with various defense and industrial partners to implement the coating technique. While most companies use hexavalent chrome plating to coat gun barrels, EPVD aims to make the barrel more accurate, improve barrel wear resilience, reduce maintenance, and be greener for the environment.

Process overview

EPVD involves vaporizing the coating material in vacuum and depositing it onto the substrate. Electromagnetic fields are applied to control the deposition rate and ensure uniform coating thickness, resulting in superior coating properties.In this process, the material is removed from a target made from the refractory alloy and deposited on the bore of the gun barrel in a low-pressure, inert environment.

The EPVD process was developed with a unique ability to generate thick coatings (50 to 300 microns), which are often required for gun barrel applications. The process is easily adapted to accommodate small, medium, and large caliber gun barrels, applying engineered multilayer coatings. This process applies coatings of mostly metallic or ceramic material. EPVD Coatings employed for gun barrel applications have been predominantly engineered with tantalum, tungsten, and other refractory metals.

Applications

EPVD technology is primarily utilized in the defense industry for coating gun barrels, significantly enhancing their accuracy, durability, and lifespan. The coating technique addresses the high-stress requirements of military applications.

Beyond defense, EPVD finds applications in various high-performance sectors. In the aerospace industry, it is used to coat turbine blades and engine components, improving resistance to extreme temperatures and wear. The automotive industry benefits from EPVD technology by improving the performance and longevity of engine parts and transmission components. Additionally, EPVD is employed in petrochemical applications, industrial machinery and medical device manufacturing, enhancing the durability and biocompatibility of surgical instruments and implants.