Advanced surface engineering
Coating and surface finishing are becoming increasingly important steps in steel production. ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe possesses one of the world's leading and most advanced surface engineering facilities in the Dortmunder OberflächenCentrum (DOC®), which we run in collaboration with SMS Siemag and the Fraunhofer Society.
The aim is to drive forward the development of completely new surface concepts offering superior properties. One example is higher scratch resistance in order to be able to supply pre-primed or pre-painted sheets to the assembly lines of car manufacturers.
The use of vacuum deposition processes on sheet is being investigated on a modular pilot plant in the DOC® with the aim of achieving greatly reduced coating thicknesses and a protective effect equivalent to or better than conventional zinc coatings.
The production of functional organic coatings for carbon and stainless steel flat products is another core activity, with the focus on developing UV-resistant and easy-clean surfaces. Current customer requirements and future market developments form the basis for tailored coating designs.
Thinking the future of steel – in everything we do.