One-tank TLT cleaning and surface treatment revolutionises metal finishing

DriPHOS TLT is a solvent-based, single-tank, metal-cleaning and pre-treatment process developed by EnviroTech Surface Technologies that uses thin layer technology to produce consistent high-quality finishes.

Unlike conventional pre-treatment processes it uses only one tank to clean, pre-treat, rinse and dry components, which emerge warm to the touch and with a crystalline coating that improves adhesion and protects metals against in-house rusting or corrosion.

The DriPHOS TLT can replace existing aqueous multi-tank systems, reducing energy usage by at least 50 per cent, lowering process times to five-minute cycles, increasing throughput and utilising 60 per cent less space.

The system is based on the vapour-degreasing process but with the added benefit of surface pre-treatment in one tank. It uses a proprietary blend of compounds in a stable low boiling-point solvent carrier to dissolve the active chemicals that produce the protective, nano-thickness crystalline structure on the metal surface.

The coating has a large surface area to improve the adhesion of subsequent coatings, such as paint or powder, which are then more resistant to impact damage or scratches. The large increase in surface area is due to the unique ‘fish scale’ structure of overlapping crystals.

The coating flexes with the metal, greatly increasing corrosion protection compared to that of conventional aqueous pre-treatments.

The blend of non-flammable compounds and solvents has minimal environmental impact. Operating temperature is only 40°C and no drying is required after treatment, reducing costs and production of CO₂.

Processed components are instantly available for further fabrication, assembly or finishing in industries such as domestic and office furniture, point of sale and retail displays where small batches of different colours are needed. Stored parts will not rust or corrode for long periods under normal conditions.

Operators employ the DriPHOS TLT process safely with equipment designed to ensure minimal emissions or exposure to solvent. The process is simple to maintain with ongoing technical support from EnviroTech partner and product specialist Fraser Technologies.

Regular testing of the liquids ensures trouble-free operations. Operators are trained on site to maintain the bath using the test kits supplied.

Importantly, quality control can be visually monitored instantly by observing the colour change on the metal surface, from iridescent blue through gold to red, showing the level of crystalline coating.