Coatings

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sen2two

Joined
Feb 8, 2019
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I came across a coating called DLC (Diamond Like Carbon). Seems like a VERY good option for what I am trying to accomplish. However, I cannot find pricing for this. Or any coating really. Everywhere I have checked wants to call or email for a quote.

So, I thought I would ask here as I am sure a few of you have had your blades coated. Anyone here have experience with this coating as well as others and can share the validity of the coating along with the average cost?
 
I haven't but I know Aaron Gough did a bunch of testing on it on his You Tube channel. Maybe you can reach out to him.
 
For 1 blade, it's going to be very expensive. It depends on how much volume the item you coat takes up in the chamber of the coating machine, and how much similar work the coating company has in queue. Post some overall dimensions and I'm happy to give a ballpark based on experience.

You also have to be careful of what materials you have PVD or CVD coated. Most coatings require temperatures 800° to 1,000° F, so make sure the draw temperature of the blade material is above this, or the coating process will draw it to a much softer hardness. DLC coating is "usually" processed at a relatively low 300-400° F, but you'll still want to verify.
 
I been making blades on the smaller size. Most are around 6" in total length and under 2" total width.

I did notice the temperatures, which is another reason i want to go with DLC and it's much lower process temperature.
 
Figure on around $200 to $250 to DLC coat 1 piece. Multiples of the same thing will reduce the price. Oerlikon Balzers is probably the most competent. However, they have minimum order requirements.

As an example, I had them DLC coat a dozen pieces that were about 2'' in diameter and 2-1/2'' long. They were $55 each to have coated.

The material was T15 powdered metal, if that matters. Also, I'm a commercial customer - I'm not sure if they work with individuals or not.
 
Chad Buie at Club Custom Guns can accommodate you for a very reasonable price on single blades.
 
I’m looking into investing into cerakote myself. Seems worth it to buy the full kit, then I could do firearms and knives!
 
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