Valve discs

Lead-free valve discs with laser clading

Parker Hannifin has used bronze in a valve disc for several years in the manufacture of hydraulic machines, such as pumps and motors. With changed requirements regarding increased performance and elimination of lead in the bronze metal, Parker began to look around for new solutions.

Alternatives in the form of rolling, thermal spraying, thin film coating and laser surface treatment were evaluated through studies of the machine parts’ function and performance as well as the efficiency of the process.

Duroc Laser Coating’s laser cladding proved to be able to offer a completely lead-free laser bronze with superior performance compared to other methods. It is also a flexible solution that enables production adapted to demand and shortened lead times.

“Duroc Laser Coating’s solution has rationalized our manufacturing process and gives us an improved overall economy,” explains Mats Karlsson, purchasing manager at Parker Hannifin in Trollhättan.