BEP Floor Applied sciences, a main electroplating and floor ending specialist, is accelerating its ground-breaking R&D into nanodiamond expertise with a key appointment.
Picture Credit score: BEP Floor Applied sciences
The Radcliffe-based firm has employed a extremely expert chemical engineer, Dinesh Durgappa, to spearhead developments in mixing microscopic diamond particles with electroless nickel plating.
Mixing nanodiamonds with metallic coatings can provide game-changing enhancements in elements utilized in many current and rising industries as a result of they radically improve thermal conductivity and enhance put on resistance.
This strategic rent underscores BEP’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of floor therapy options, following the strategic partnership with Helsinki-based nanodiamond producer Carbodeon, introduced in September.
Commenting on his new function, Durgappa mentioned: “By fusing trendy nanotechnology with conventional plating strategies, we’re pushing boundaries that might revolutionise the trade.
“Nanodiamonds deliver a cutting-edge benefit to the desk, and I’m excited to discover its purposes in heavy equipment, mining gear and nuclear waste administration.”
Durgappa is engaged on creating electroless nickel plating with mid-phosphorus for industrial use. Mid-phosphorus plating incorporates 5% to 9% phosphorus and balances between low- and high-phosphorus coatings. It’s recognized to be corrosion-resistant, more durable, and produce easy, shiny surfaces.
This expertise marks a big shift from conventional electrolytic processes, because it doesn’t require electrical energy, providing higher versatility and effectivity. By integrating nanodiamonds into the electroless nickel plating course of, Durgappa goals to enhance the efficiency of plated supplies, offering superior resistance to put on and corrosion—two essential challenges for heavy equipment and different sectors.
Durgappa is main BEP Floor Applied sciences’ efforts to conduct in-depth literature opinions and experimental analysis. Technical advisor John Tor and an trade veteran will help this initiative and information the incorporation of the brand new expertise into current processes.
Investing in top-tier expertise will drive BEP’s ongoing efforts to boost put on resistance, corrosion safety, and effectivity throughout industries, together with heavy equipment, mining, and vitality.
By integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology, BEP goals to ship game-changing options that meet its purchasers’ evolving wants whereas making certain enhanced sturdiness and prolonged service life for essential elements. This utility might revolutionise automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing processes, opening new alternatives for BEP.
Andrew McClusky, Managing Director at BEP, mentioned: “We’re exploring partnerships with chemical suppliers and exterior corporations to facilitate the mixing of this expertise into the trade. Its explicit focus is on overcoming present operations’ spatial and logistical challenges.
“Electroless nickel plating, notably when nanodiamonds are built-in, guarantees to open new avenues for BEP’s development throughout industries, together with aerospace, automotive, and plastics. The modern expertise is protected by patents in each America and Europe, positioning BEP as a possible chief within the industrial plating sector.”
Earlier than becoming a member of BEP, Durgappa gained helpful expertise at Rapture Engineering, the place he labored on growing copper and brass alloys. He efficiently led the event of 35 new merchandise in a yr, taking them from prototyping to pilot manufacturing.
His tutorial credentials embrace a Grasp of Philosophy in Metallurgy and Corrosion from the College of Manchester and a bachelor’s diploma in metallurgical engineering from Jain College, Bangalore.
“We’re this undertaking not solely as a possibility for technical innovation but additionally as a technique to introduce new industries to BEP, additional driving income technology and fostering technological development inside the firm,” McClusky added.
