Reflective vacuum coating machine AluMet

for plastic parts

Overview
The AluMet vacuum evaporation metalizer (AluMet series) is a production‑grade system designed to deposit reflective aluminum layers and protective/functional top coats on complex 3D parts. It is suited for continuous industrial use in applications such as automotive interiors, car‑lamp reflectors and decorative coatings.

Key benefits

• Low production costs: efficient consumable use and optimized aluminum evaporator geometries reduce operating expenses.
• Shorter cycle times: powerful vacuum pumping, efficient thermal evaporators and high‑rate PECVD sources shorten process durations.
• Consistent quality: modern intuitive HMI and fully automated process control ensure repeatable high throughput.

Highlight features

• 24/7 production capability: robust design and proven performance in continuous automotive production; key components are serviceable and accessible.
• Flexible substrate handling: planetary holder with seven pylons per door supports a wide range of substrate sizes and types.
• Compact footprint: mounted in a compact steel frame occupying approximately 23.7 m² for straightforward installation and relocation.

Other features

• Double‑door design: allows independent loading/unloading of one door while the other is processing to increase throughput.
• Reduced pump‑down and cycle times: faster pump‑down combined with high metallization quality — typical deposition of aluminum + protective top coat on a car‑lamp reflector in ~20–25 minutes.
• Customizable platform: configurable to specific product, process and production parameters for high‑quality 3D coating tasks.

Services and training
Bühler’s services and training programs cover installation, commissioning, operator training, maintenance, retrofits and digital services to ensure reliable operation and optimized productivity.

Technical specifications

• Brand: Bühler Leybold Optics
• Model/series: AluMet series
• Technology: Vacuum evaporation metalizing with thermal evaporators and high‑rate PECVD top‑coat capability
• Substrate holder: Planetary system with seven pylons per door
• Doors: Double‑door design for independent loading/unloading
• Typical footprint: ~23.7 m² (compact steel frame)
• Typical cycle time example: Aluminum + protective top coat on a typical car‑lamp reflector in approx. 20–25 minutes
• Control: Intuitive HMI and fully automated process control
• Customization: Configurable to product, process and production parameters for 3D coating