EoW March 2010

technology

Keeping wire rod corrosion in line

A phosphatisation tank, manufactured by ICMI di Cisano Bergamasco (Bergamo), is said to offer a unique guarantee to protect wire rods against corrosion. The tank contains phosphoric zinc salts and water, the purpose of which is the transformation of the surface of the wire rod, a surface that is covered with a protective microcrystalline layer of iron and zinc phosphates. With this method, the product is protected against corrosion caused by the presence of oxygen in the air. Phosphatisation always supports the binding of lubricant materials, such as oil, wax, polymers and others needed for subsequent processes. Unlike the traditional process, by immersing the wire rod (wrapped in reels) in tanks, the method invented and patented by ICMI takes place in the line, unwinding the wire on a roll positioned in the phosphatisation tank. In this way the entire surface of the wire comes completely into contact with the phosphoric liquid, ensuring an even treatment. The immersion times of the wire vary, depending on its diameter, and are regulated by unwinding a certain number of turns on the roll.

Rod undergoing phosphatisation ▲ ▲

The phosphatisation tank enables the continuous treatment of the wire. The internal wire winding roll is built in such a way as to make the accumulation and running of the wire optimal on the roll, while the process solution is maintained at the correct temperature for the phosphatisation process. A tank is available for processing stainless steel wire, as is a larger tank for the treatment of wires with different diameters.

ICMI Srl – Italy Fax : +39 035 787722

Email : info@icmiforniindustriali.com Website : www.icmiforniindustriali.com

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EuroWire – March 2010