EP3137656B1 - Device intended for implementing an anodization treatment and anodization treatment - Google Patents

Device intended for implementing an anodization treatment and anodization treatment Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3137656B1
EP3137656B1 EP15725761.9A EP15725761A EP3137656B1 EP 3137656 B1 EP3137656 B1 EP 3137656B1 EP 15725761 A EP15725761 A EP 15725761A EP 3137656 B1 EP3137656 B1 EP 3137656B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
electrolyte
treatment chamber
treatment
anodizing
channel
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EP15725761.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3137656A1 (en
Inventor
Julien GURT SANTANACH
Alain Viola
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Safran Helicopter Engines SAS
Safran Landing Systems SAS
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Safran Helicopter Engines SAS
Safran Landing Systems SAS
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Priority to PL15725761T priority Critical patent/PL3137656T3/en
Publication of EP3137656A1 publication Critical patent/EP3137656A1/en
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D11/00—Electrolytic coating by surface reaction, i.e. forming conversion layers
    • C25D11/02—Anodisation
    • C25D11/026—Anodisation with spark discharge
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D21/00—Processes for servicing or operating cells for electrolytic coating
    • C25D21/12—Process control or regulation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D11/00—Electrolytic coating by surface reaction, i.e. forming conversion layers
    • C25D11/005—Apparatus specially adapted for electrolytic conversion coating
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D11/00—Electrolytic coating by surface reaction, i.e. forming conversion layers
    • C25D11/02—Anodisation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D17/00—Constructional parts, or assemblies thereof, of cells for electrolytic coating
    • C25D17/02—Tanks; Installations therefor
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D17/00—Constructional parts, or assemblies thereof, of cells for electrolytic coating
    • C25D17/10—Electrodes, e.g. composition, counter electrode
    • C25D17/12—Shape or form
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D21/00—Processes for servicing or operating cells for electrolytic coating
    • C25D21/06—Filtering particles other than ions
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D21/00—Processes for servicing or operating cells for electrolytic coating
    • C25D21/16—Regeneration of process solutions
    • C25D21/18—Regeneration of process solutions of electrolytes

Definitions

  • the invention relates to devices for carrying out anodizing treatment, preferably anodizing micro-arcs processing, as well as associated methods.
  • the parts can be immersed in an aqueous electrolyte and are exposed, via a specific electronic generator and if necessary a counter-electrode of geometry adapted to the parts, to a pulsed alternative electrical energy.
  • Microscopic electroluminescent discharges due to dielectric breakdowns of the hydroxide layer and assimilated to micro-plasmas, are then visible on the surface of the parts.
  • the main processing parameters (frequency of the electrical signal, current density, immersion time of the parts in the bath, temperature ”) are adjustable and controllable according to the material of the treated part, its geometry and the desired properties of the anodizing layer.
  • this technique may require the implementation of a generator using a bipolar current of high intensity of current due to the large surface of the part or parts to be treated, which can therefore lead to significant power consumption.
  • it may be difficult to obtain a micro-arcing anodizing coating on a large surface part due to the high currents required for anodizing.
  • the temperature of the electrolyte in known bath treatments can be difficult to control.
  • the control of the temperature of the bath may however be necessary to ensure good development of the coating.
  • the desire to regulate the temperature of the bath can lead to the implementation of a relatively complex installation, thus significantly increasing the cost of the treatments used.
  • micro-arcing anodizing processes Another disadvantage of known micro-arcing anodizing processes is that it may be difficult to reliably measure certain electrolyte parameters in the bath during the implementation of the anodizing treatment. A reliable measurement of such parameters would however be desirable, for example to be able to modify, according to the information determined by these measurements, the anodizing treatment carried out.
  • the document US2005 / 077183 discloses an apparatus for anodizing large substrates; the apparatus comprises the substrate as anode forming the bottom of the treatment tank, electrolyte inputs and outputs and a cathode located opposite the substrate and immersed in the bath. There is therefore a need to provide devices for achieving a simple and inexpensive anodizing treatment, particularly a micro-arcs anodizing treatment.
  • the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, a device intended for the implementation of an anodizing treatment of a part according to claim 1.
  • the invention is based on the principle of making a chamber of "remote" treatment of the storage tank of the electrolyte, the workpiece forming a wall of this treatment chamber.
  • the workpiece is not immersed in the electrolyte but only the surface of the workpiece is in contact with the electrolyte during the anodizing treatment .
  • the surface of the workpiece is electrically conductive, the workpiece comprising for example a metal, for example aluminum, magnesium and / or titanium.
  • the invention advantageously makes it possible to "concentrate" the anodizing treatment in a limited volume at the level of the chamber treatment and makes possible the implementation of a treatment chamber having a volume significantly less than that of a tank used in known anodizing processes in which the workpiece is immersed.
  • a treatment chamber having a volume adapted to the dimensions of the surface to be treated is implemented which has several advantages.
  • the invention makes it possible, in fact, to achieve savings in terms of energy consumption compared with the methods of the prior art since, when using the device according to the invention, the power supplied by the generator is specifically proportioned to the dimensions of the surface to be treated.
  • a large part, for example made of aluminum, often used in the aeronautical field may advantageously be anodized without having to use a tank immersing it completely as in the known methods of the prior art thus allowing save in terms of the amount of electrolyte used during the anodizing treatment.
  • the invention therefore provides devices for making simple and economical anodizing treatments, preferably micro-arc oxidation treatments.
  • the device according to the invention is preferably intended for carrying out a micro-arcs oxidation treatment.
  • the devices according to the invention make it possible, in addition, to better control the heat production effects at the level of the treated zone by allowing an efficient renewal of the electrolyte in the treatment chamber and the maintenance of the latter at the optimum conditions of the mixtures. .
  • This renewal is made possible by the system for the storage and circulation of the electrolyte allowing the flow of electrolyte from the storage tank to the treatment chamber and the return of the electrolyte from the treatment chamber to the tank of storage.
  • Such a system helps to better control the anodizing treatment and leads to coatings more easily meeting the required specifications.
  • the system for storing and circulating the electrolyte may further comprise a pump intended to allow the circulation of the electrolyte in said system.
  • the device may comprise at least one seal constituting a second wall of the treatment chamber, the second wall being different from the first wall.
  • the device advantageously comprises two seals located opposite one another constituting two separate walls of the treatment chamber.
  • the treatment chamber can define a single compartment.
  • the anodizing treatments according to the invention have the advantages described above.
  • the anodizing treatment may preferably be a micro-arcing oxidation treatment.
  • the electrolyte can flow into the circulation circuit of the electrolyte with a flow rate of between 0.1 times and 10 times the volume of the treatment chamber per minute.
  • the electrolyte present in the treatment chamber can be renewed continuously during the anodizing treatment.
  • the method may further comprise a step of filtering the electrolyte flowing in the second channel before returning to the storage tank.
  • FIG. 1 an example of device 1 according to the invention.
  • the device 1 comprises the workpiece 3 and a generator 5.
  • the workpiece 3 is intended to undergo anodizing treatment, preferably microarray oxidation.
  • the generator 5 makes it possible to perform this anodization.
  • a first terminal of the generator 5 is electrically connected to the part 3 and a second terminal of the generator 5 is electrically connected to a counter-electrode 7 situated opposite the part 3.
  • the generator 5 is advantageously configured to apply a current alternative.
  • Counter-electrode 7 is preferably composed of stainless steel. More generally, it is possible to use for the counterelectrode 7 any electrically conductive material compatible with the implementation of anodization treatment.
  • the device 1 comprises a treatment chamber 10 in which the anodizing treatment is intended to be carried out, the workpiece 3 constituting a first wall of the treatment chamber 10 and the counter electrode 7 constituting a wall of the treatment chamber. treatment 10 located opposite the first wall.
  • An electrolyte 11 is present in the treatment chamber 10 between the piece 3 and the counter-electrode 7.
  • the electrolyte 11 has a chemical composition that makes it possible to perform the anodizing treatment of the part 3.
  • the counter-electrode 7 is not immersed in the electrolyte 11.
  • the counter-electrode 7 delimits the treatment chamber 10.
  • the workpiece 3 is not immersed in the electrolyte 11 present in the treatment chamber 10.
  • the workpiece 3 constituting a wall of the treatment chamber 10, only the surface S of the workpiece 3 to process is in contact with the electrolyte 11.
  • the piece 3 is treated over its entire length ie the entirety of its largest dimension.
  • it is not beyond the scope of the present invention when the part is treated on only part of its length. It can therefore be realized as well in the context of the invention an anodizing treatment on only a part of a surface of a room or on the entirety of a surface of a room.
  • the treatment chamber 10 further comprises two seals 13a and 13b located opposite one another forming two separate walls of the treatment chamber. As illustrated, the seals 13a and 13b are present at the upper and lower ends of the processing chamber 10.
  • the seals 13a and 13b may be formed of a flexible material.
  • the electrolyte 11 used for the anodization is contained between the part 3 and the counter electrode 7 by a static seal using the flexible seals 13a and 13b.
  • the treatment chamber 10 thus constitutes an electrolyte reservoir 11 for effecting the coating on the surface S of the part 3.
  • the treatment chamber 10 has a volume and dimensions adapted to the dimensions and geometry of the the surface S of the part 3 to be treated.
  • the processing chamber 10 defines a single compartment.
  • the device 1 further comprises a system 20 for the storage and circulation of the electrolyte 11.
  • This system 20 comprises a storage tank 21 in which the electrolyte 11 is stored, the temperature of the electrolyte 11 stored in the storage tank being maintained at a fixed value by a cooling system (not shown).
  • the pH of the electrolyte 11 present in the storage tank 10 is also maintained at a fixed value.
  • the electrolyte 11 from the storage tank 21 flows through a first channel 23 to the treatment chamber 10.
  • the system 20 further comprises a second channel 25 allowing flowing the electrolyte 11 from the treatment chamber 10 to the storage tank 21.
  • the second channel 25 allows the evacuation of the electrolyte 11 present in the treatment chamber 10 and return it to the tank of storage 21 where it can be cooled. Circulation of the electrolyte 11 in the system 20 is provided by a pump 27.
  • the pump 27 may, for example, be a pump marketed under the name YB1-25, by the company TKEN.
  • the flow rate of the electrolyte 11 imposed by the pump 27 allows a suitable renewal of the electrolyte 11 in the treatment chamber 10 to achieve by anodizing the desired coating. It may be advantageous for the pump 27 to impose on the electrolyte 11 a flow equal to approximately 1 time the volume of the treatment chamber 10 per minute. More generally, the pump 27 may advantageously impose on the electrolyte 11 a flow rate of between 0.1 times and 10 times the volume of the treatment chamber 10 per minute.
  • the flow of the electrolyte 11 from the storage tank 21 to the treatment chamber 10 and from the treatment chamber 10 to the storage tank 21 is not interrupted during the anodizing treatment.
  • the first channel 23 may have all or part of its length a diameter d 1 less than or equal to 10 cm, for example between 1 cm and 3 cm.
  • the second channel 25 may have all or part of its length a diameter d 2 less than or equal to 10 cm, for example between 1 cm and 3 cm.
  • the treatment chamber 10 may have a volume less than or equal to 0.5 m 3 , for example between 10 dm 3 and 40 dm 3 .
  • the storage tank 21 may have a volume greater than or equal to 0.5 m 3 , for example between 0.5 m 3 and 2 m 3 .
  • seals 13a and 13b, first channel 23 and second channel 25 are chosen so as to avoid the passage of current between the counter-electrode 7 and the part 3.
  • the device 1 illustrated in figure 1 allows to perform an anodizing treatment process piece by piece.
  • the method implemented by means of the device 1 described in FIG. figure 1 is advantageously devoid of a step of masking a portion of the surface S of the workpiece 3 or of setting up at least one saving on the surface S of the workpiece 3 to be treated.
  • the final thickness of the coating formed after anodizing treatment measured perpendicularly to the surface of the underlying part may be between 2 ⁇ m and 200 ⁇ m.
  • the invention is however not limited to the implementation of a micro-arcs oxidation process.
  • a device according to the invention can be achieved any type of anodization such as for example anodic oxidation sulfuric (OAS), chromic anodic oxidation (OAC), anodic oxidation sulfotartric (OAST) or anodic oxidation sulfo-phosphoric acid (OASP).
  • OAS anodic oxidation sulfuric
  • OAC chromic anodic oxidation
  • OFAST anodic oxidation sulfotartric
  • OFASP anodic oxidation sulfo-phosphoric acid
  • the treated part may, for example, be a blade, for example titanium, or a pump body. It is also possible to repair a damaged anodizing layer by means of a device according to the invention, which can make it possible to carry out localized repair by forming an anodizing coating only in the damaged zone.
  • the storage tank 21 is dedicated to the storage and renewal of the electrolyte and no anodizing treatment is performed therein.
  • These treatments complementary to the anodization are not known to the inventors not implemented or not implemented satisfactorily in the known methods of the state of the art.
  • the device 1 further comprises a filtering device 52 located between the treatment chamber 10 and the storage tank 21.
  • the electrolyte present in the second channel 25 flows towards the filtering device 52 for once. filtered back to the storage tank 21 through the channel 25a.
  • the implementation of such a filtering device 52 may advantageously make it possible, for example, to remove particles not attached to the anode layer formed in order to purify the electrolyte 11 before it returns to the treatment chamber 10.
  • the device 1 comprises a sensor 60 making it possible to determine information relating to the electrolyte 11 flowing in the first channel 23.
  • This sensor 60 makes it possible, depending on the determined information, to act on the generator 5 so as to modify the less a characteristic of the anodizing treatment performed.
  • the sensor can determine information relating to the electrolyte flowing in the second channel, or at the same time determine information relating to the electrolyte flowing in the first channel and information relating to the electrolyte. flowing in the second channel, in order to modify according to this information the anodizing treatment carried out.
  • the information relating to the electrolyte determined by the sensor may be at least one of the following information: the concentration of metal species, for example aluminum, within the electrolyte, the pH and the conductivity of the electrolyte. 'electrolyte.
  • the electrolyte can be charged in metallic species as the progress of the anodization and this parameter as the pH or the conductivity of the electrolyte can have an influence on the anodizing treatment performed.
  • the direct control of the anodization carried out may be of interest especially for anodizing treatments of parts intended to be used in the aeronautical field and / or during the implementation of relatively long anodizing treatments.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Non-Metals, Compounds, Apparatuses Therefor (AREA)
  • Formation Of Insulating Films (AREA)
  • Fuel Cell (AREA)
  • Water Treatment By Electricity Or Magnetism (AREA)
  • Chemically Coating (AREA)
  • Weting (AREA)
  • Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)

Description

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

L'invention concerne des dispositifs pour la réalisation d'un traitement d'anodisation, de préférence d'un traitement d'anodisation micro-arcs, ainsi que des procédés associés.The invention relates to devices for carrying out anodizing treatment, preferably anodizing micro-arcs processing, as well as associated methods.

Il est connu de traiter par anodisation micro-arcs des alliages à base de magnésium, aluminium ou titane. Cette technique peut permettre d'élaborer des couches ayant une très faible porosité et une dureté largement supérieure à celle d'un oxyde amorphe obtenu par anodisation conventionnelle comme l'oxydation anodique sulfurique (OAS), l'oxydation anodique chromique (OAC) ou l'oxydation anodique phosphorique (OAP). En effet, dans un traitement par anodisation micro-arcs la couche d'oxyde à la surface de la pièce est formée suite à la génération de micro-décharges électriques entrainant la formation de micro-arcs ayant la capacité d'élever très localement la température de la surface de la pièce de manière à cristalliser l'oxyde amorphe qui se forme durant l'étape d'anodisation. Dans un traitement d'anodisation micro-arcs, les pièces peuvent être immergées dans un électrolyte aqueux et sont exposées, par l'intermédiaire d'un générateur électronique spécifique et si besoin d'une contre-électrode de géométrie adaptée aux pièces, à une énergie électrique alternative puisée. Des décharges électroluminescentes microscopiques, dues à des claquages diélectriques de la couche d'hydroxydes et assimilables à des micro-plasmas, sont alors visibles à la surface des pièces.It is known to treat anodizing micro-arcs magnesium-based alloys, aluminum or titanium. This technique can make it possible to develop layers having a very low porosity and a hardness much greater than that of an amorphous oxide obtained by conventional anodizing such as sulfuric anodic oxidation (OAS), chromic anodic oxidation (OAC) or phosphoric anodic oxidation (PAO). Indeed, in a micro-arcs anodizing treatment the oxide layer on the surface of the part is formed following the generation of micro-electric discharges resulting in the formation of micro-arcs having the capacity to raise very locally the temperature of the workpiece surface so as to crystallize the amorphous oxide that forms during the anodization step. In a micro-arcs anodizing treatment, the parts can be immersed in an aqueous electrolyte and are exposed, via a specific electronic generator and if necessary a counter-electrode of geometry adapted to the parts, to a pulsed alternative electrical energy. Microscopic electroluminescent discharges, due to dielectric breakdowns of the hydroxide layer and assimilated to micro-plasmas, are then visible on the surface of the parts.

Les principaux paramètres de traitement (fréquence du signal électrique, densité de courant, durée d'immersion des pièces dans le bain, température...) sont modulables et pilotables en fonction du matériau de la pièce traitée, de sa géométrie et des propriétés désirées de la couche d'anodisation.The main processing parameters (frequency of the electrical signal, current density, immersion time of the parts in the bath, temperature ...) are adjustable and controllable according to the material of the treated part, its geometry and the desired properties of the anodizing layer.

Toutefois, la réalisation d'un revêtement par la technique actuelle d'anodisation micro-arcs en grande cuve (ordre de grandeur du volume de la cuve : 0,5 m3) peut présenter plusieurs limites.However, the production of a coating by the current technique of anodizing micro-arcs in large tank (order of magnitude of the volume of the tank: 0.5 m 3 ) may have several limitations.

Tout d'abord, cette technique peut nécessiter la mise en oeuvre d'un générateur utilisant un courant bipolaire de forte intensité de courant du fait de la surface importante de la ou des pièces à traiter, ce qui peut donc conduire à une consommation électrique importante. En outre, il peut être difficile d'obtenir un revêtement par anodisation micro-arcs sur une pièce de grande surface du fait des courants élevés nécessaires à l'anodisation.First, this technique may require the implementation of a generator using a bipolar current of high intensity of current due to the large surface of the part or parts to be treated, which can therefore lead to significant power consumption. In addition, it may be difficult to obtain a micro-arcing anodizing coating on a large surface part due to the high currents required for anodizing.

Par ailleurs, le traitement d'anodisation micro-arcs étant très énergétique, la température de l'électrolyte dans les traitements en bain connus peut être difficile à contrôler. Le contrôle de la température du bain peut pourtant être nécessaire afin d'assurer une bonne élaboration du revêtement. Le souhait de réguler la température du bain peut conduire à la mise en oeuvre d'une installation relativement complexe, augmentant ainsi significativement le coût des traitements mis en oeuvre.Furthermore, since the micro-arcs anodizing treatment is very energetic, the temperature of the electrolyte in known bath treatments can be difficult to control. The control of the temperature of the bath may however be necessary to ensure good development of the coating. The desire to regulate the temperature of the bath can lead to the implementation of a relatively complex installation, thus significantly increasing the cost of the treatments used.

Un autre désavantage des procédés d'anodisation micro-arcs connus est qu'il peut être difficile de mesurer de manière fiable certains paramètres de l'électrolyte dans le bain durant la mise en oeuvre du traitement d'anodisation. Une mesure fiable de tels paramètres serait pourtant souhaitable afin par exemple de pouvoir modifier, en fonction des informations déterminées par ces mesures, le traitement d'anodisation effectué.Another disadvantage of known micro-arcing anodizing processes is that it may be difficult to reliably measure certain electrolyte parameters in the bath during the implementation of the anodizing treatment. A reliable measurement of such parameters would however be desirable, for example to be able to modify, according to the information determined by these measurements, the anodizing treatment carried out.

Enfin, dans le but de réaliser l'anodisation micro-arcs d'une pièce sur une zone bien précise, il est possible d'utiliser des épargnes qui peuvent être de type organique, par exemple un vernis, ou de type inorganique, résultant par exemple d'une anodisation conventionnelle, afin d'empêcher la formation de la couche d'anodisation micro-arcs sur l'intégralité de la surface de la pièce. Les épargnes permettent, en effet, d'isoler électriquement la surface de la pièce sous-jacente de l'électrolyte et ainsi d'empêcher l'anodisation de cette surface. Toutefois, la mise en place des épargnes peut être relativement couteuse et rendre la gamme de fabrication significativement plus complexe. Par ailleurs, l'étape de masquage peut être délicate et peut aussi rendre le traitement significativement plus coûteux. Le document US2005/077183 divulgue un appareil d'anodisation de grands substrats; l'appareil comprend le substrat comme anode formant le fond de la cuve de traitement, des entrées et sorties d'électrolyte et une cathode située en regard du substrat et immergée dans le bain. Il existe donc un besoin pour fournir des dispositifs permettant de réaliser de manière simple et peu coûteuse un traitement d'anodisation, en particulier un traitement d'anodisation micro-arcs.Finally, for the purpose of achieving anodizing micro-arcs of a part over a specific area, it is possible to use savings that can be of organic type, for example a varnish, or inorganic type, resulting in example of a conventional anodizing, to prevent the formation of the micro-arcs anodizing layer on the entire surface of the workpiece. The savings allow, in effect, to electrically isolate the surface of the underlying part of the electrolyte and thus to prevent the anodization of this surface. However, the introduction of savings can be relatively expensive and make the range of manufacturing significantly more complex. Moreover, the masking step can be delicate and can also make the treatment significantly more expensive. The document US2005 / 077183 discloses an apparatus for anodizing large substrates; the apparatus comprises the substrate as anode forming the bottom of the treatment tank, electrolyte inputs and outputs and a cathode located opposite the substrate and immersed in the bath. There is therefore a need to provide devices for achieving a simple and inexpensive anodizing treatment, particularly a micro-arcs anodizing treatment.

Il existe encore un besoin pour fournir des dispositifs permettant de contrôler efficacement la température de l'électrolyte durant un traitement d'anodisation, en particulier durant un traitement d'anodisation micro-arcs.There is still a need to provide devices for effectively controlling the temperature of the electrolyte during anodizing treatment, especially during micro-arcs anodizing treatment.

Il existe encore un besoin pour fournir de nouveaux dispositifs adaptés à la réalisation de traitements complémentaires à l'anodisation et permettant en particulier de contrôler de manière fiable les paramètres de l'électrolyte utilisé dans le traitement d'anodisation.There is still a need to provide new devices suitable for carrying out treatments complementary to the anodization and in particular to reliably control the parameters of the electrolyte used in the anodizing treatment.

Objet et résumé de l'inventionObject and summary of the invention

A cet effet, l'invention propose, selon un premier aspect, un dispositif destiné à la mise en oeuvre d'un traitement d'anodisation d'une pièce selon la revendication 1. L'invention repose sur le principe de réaliser une chambre de traitement « déportée » de la cuve de stockage de l'électrolyte, la pièce à traiter formant une paroi de cette chambre de traitement. A la différence des dispositifs d'anodisation connus de l'art antérieur, la pièce à traiter n'est pas immergée dans l'électrolyte mais seule la surface de la pièce à traiter est au contact de l'électrolyte durant le traitement d'anodisation. Bien entendu, la surface de la pièce à traiter est conductrice de l'électricité, la pièce comportant par exemple un métal, par exemple de l'aluminium, du magnésium et/ou du titane.For this purpose, the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, a device intended for the implementation of an anodizing treatment of a part according to claim 1. The invention is based on the principle of making a chamber of "remote" treatment of the storage tank of the electrolyte, the workpiece forming a wall of this treatment chamber. Unlike anodizing devices known from the prior art, the workpiece is not immersed in the electrolyte but only the surface of the workpiece is in contact with the electrolyte during the anodizing treatment . Of course, the surface of the workpiece is electrically conductive, the workpiece comprising for example a metal, for example aluminum, magnesium and / or titanium.

L'invention permet avantageusement de « concentrer » le traitement d'anodisation dans un volume limité au niveau de la chambre de traitement et rend possible la mise en oeuvre d'une chambre de traitement ayant un volume significativement inférieur à celui d'une cuve utilisée dans les procédés d'anodisation connus dans laquelle la pièce à traiter est immergée. Ainsi, dans l'invention, une chambre de traitement ayant un volume adapté aux dimensions de la surface à traiter est mise en oeuvre ce qui présente plusieurs avantages.The invention advantageously makes it possible to "concentrate" the anodizing treatment in a limited volume at the level of the chamber treatment and makes possible the implementation of a treatment chamber having a volume significantly less than that of a tank used in known anodizing processes in which the workpiece is immersed. Thus, in the invention, a treatment chamber having a volume adapted to the dimensions of the surface to be treated is implemented which has several advantages.

L'invention permet, en effet, de réaliser des économies en termes de consommation énergétique par rapport aux procédés de l'art antérieur puisque, lors d'une utilisation du dispositif selon l'invention, la puissance fournie par le générateur est spécifiquement proportionnée aux dimensions de la surface à traiter. En outre, une pièce de grande dimension, par exemple en aluminium, souvent mise en oeuvre dans le domaine aéronautique pourra avantageusement être anodisée sans avoir à recourir à une cuve l'immergeant totalement comme dans les procédés connus de l'art antérieur permettant ainsi de réaliser une économie en termes de quantité d'électrolyte mis en oeuvre durant le traitement d'anodisation.The invention makes it possible, in fact, to achieve savings in terms of energy consumption compared with the methods of the prior art since, when using the device according to the invention, the power supplied by the generator is specifically proportioned to the dimensions of the surface to be treated. In addition, a large part, for example made of aluminum, often used in the aeronautical field may advantageously be anodized without having to use a tank immersing it completely as in the known methods of the prior art thus allowing save in terms of the amount of electrolyte used during the anodizing treatment.

Ainsi, il est possible de mettre en oeuvre un courant ainsi qu'une quantité d'électrolyte adaptés aux dimensions de la surface à traiter, et ce grâce à l'utilisation d'une chambre de traitement de volume et de forme adaptés à la surface à traiter. En outre, l'emploi d'une telle chambre de traitement rend avantageusement superflues les étapes coûteuses de mise en place d'épargnes ou de masquage.Thus, it is possible to implement a current and an amount of electrolyte adapted to the dimensions of the surface to be treated, and this through the use of a volume and shape treatment chamber adapted to the surface treat. In addition, the use of such a processing chamber advantageously makes superfluous the expensive steps of setting up savings or masking.

L'invention fournit donc des dispositifs permettant de réaliser de manière simple et économique des traitements d'anodisation, de préférence des traitements d'oxydation micro-arcs.The invention therefore provides devices for making simple and economical anodizing treatments, preferably micro-arc oxidation treatments.

Le dispositif selon l'invention est de préférence destiné à la mise en oeuvre d'un traitement d'oxydation micro-arcs.The device according to the invention is preferably intended for carrying out a micro-arcs oxidation treatment.

Les dispositifs selon l'invention permettent, en outre, de mieux contrôler les effets de production calorifique au niveau de la zone traitée en permettant un renouvellement efficace de l'électrolyte dans la chambre de traitement et le maintien de ce dernier aux conditions optimales de mélanges. Ce renouvellement est rendu possible grâce au système pour le stockage et la circulation de l'électrolyte permettant l'écoulement de l'électrolyte depuis la cuve de stockage vers la chambre de traitement et le retour de l'électrolyte depuis la chambre de traitement vers la cuve de stockage. Un tel système contribue à mieux contrôler le traitement d'anodisation et conduit à des revêtements répondant plus facilement aux spécifications exigées.The devices according to the invention make it possible, in addition, to better control the heat production effects at the level of the treated zone by allowing an efficient renewal of the electrolyte in the treatment chamber and the maintenance of the latter at the optimum conditions of the mixtures. . This renewal is made possible by the system for the storage and circulation of the electrolyte allowing the flow of electrolyte from the storage tank to the treatment chamber and the return of the electrolyte from the treatment chamber to the tank of storage. Such a system helps to better control the anodizing treatment and leads to coatings more easily meeting the required specifications.

Avantageusement, le système pour le stockage et la circulation de l'électrolyte peut, en outre, comporter une pompe destinée à permettre la circulation de l'électrolyte dans ledit système.Advantageously, the system for storing and circulating the electrolyte may further comprise a pump intended to allow the circulation of the electrolyte in said system.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, le dispositif peut être tel que le circuit de circulation de l'électrolyte comporte :

  • un premier canal destiné à permettre l'écoulement de l'électrolyte provenant de la cuve de stockage vers la chambre de traitement, et
  • un deuxième canal destiné à permettre l'écoulement de l'électrolyte depuis la chambre de traitement vers la cuve de stockage. La chambre de traitement a un volume inférieur au volume de la cuve de stockage. Le volume de la cuve de stockage, respectivement de la chambre de traitement, correspond au volume interne (i.e. sans compter le volume des parois) de ladite cuve de stockage, respectivement de ladite chambre de traitement. En particulier, le rapport (volume de la chambre de traitement)/(volume de la cuve de stockage) est inférieur ou égal à 1, de préférence à 0,2.
In an exemplary embodiment, the device may be such that the circuit for circulating the electrolyte comprises:
  • a first channel for allowing the flow of electrolyte from the storage tank to the process chamber, and
  • a second channel for allowing the flow of electrolyte from the treatment chamber to the storage tank. The treatment chamber has a volume less than the volume of the storage tank. The volume of the storage tank, respectively of the treatment chamber, corresponds to the internal volume (ie without counting the volume of the walls) of said storage tank, respectively of said treatment chamber. In particular, the ratio (volume of the treatment chamber) / (volume of the storage tank) is less than or equal to 1, preferably to 0.2.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, le dispositif peut comporter au moins un joint d'étanchéité constituant une deuxième paroi de la chambre de traitement, la deuxième paroi étant différente de la première paroi. En particulier, le dispositif comporte avantageusement deux joints d'étanchéité situés en regard l'un de l'autre constituant deux parois distinctes de la chambre de traitement.In an exemplary embodiment, the device may comprise at least one seal constituting a second wall of the treatment chamber, the second wall being different from the first wall. In particular, the device advantageously comprises two seals located opposite one another constituting two separate walls of the treatment chamber.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, la chambre de traitement peut définir un unique compartiment.In an exemplary embodiment, the treatment chamber can define a single compartment.

La présente invention vise également un procédé d'anodisation d'une pièce comportant l'étape suivante :

  • formation d'un revêtement sur une surface de la pièce par traitement d'anodisation mettant en oeuvre un dispositif tel que défini plus haut, un électrolyte étant présent dans la chambre de traitement durant le traitement d'anodisation et l'électrolyte s'écoulant dans le circuit de circulation de l'électrolyte durant le traitement d'anodisation.
The present invention also relates to a method of anodizing a part comprising the following step:
  • forming a coating on a surface of the part by anodization treatment using a device as defined above, an electrolyte being present in the treatment chamber during the anodizing treatment and the electrolyte flowing in the circulation circuit of the electrolyte during the anodization treatment.

Les traitements d'anodisation selon l'invention présentent les avantages décrits plus haut.The anodizing treatments according to the invention have the advantages described above.

Le traitement d'anodisation peut, de préférence, être un traitement d'oxydation micro-arcs.The anodizing treatment may preferably be a micro-arcing oxidation treatment.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, l'électrolyte peut s'écouler dans le circuit de circulation de l'électrolyte avec un débit compris entre 0,1 fois et 10 fois le volume de la chambre de traitement par minute.In an exemplary embodiment, the electrolyte can flow into the circulation circuit of the electrolyte with a flow rate of between 0.1 times and 10 times the volume of the treatment chamber per minute.

Avantageusement, l'électrolyte présent dans la chambre de traitement peut être renouvelé en continu durant le traitement d'anodisation.Advantageously, the electrolyte present in the treatment chamber can be renewed continuously during the anodizing treatment.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, durant le traitement d'anodisation :

  • l'électrolyte provenant de la cuve de stockage peut s'écouler vers la chambre de traitement au travers du premier canal, et
  • l'électrolyte peut s'écouler depuis la chambre de traitement vers la cuve de stockage au travers du deuxième canal.
In an exemplary embodiment, during the anodizing treatment:
  • the electrolyte from the storage tank can flow to the treatment chamber through the first channel, and
  • the electrolyte can flow from the treatment chamber to the storage tank through the second channel.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, le procédé peut, en outre, comporter une étape de filtration de l'électrolyte s'écoulant dans le deuxième canal avant son retour dans la cuve de stockage.In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further comprise a step of filtering the electrolyte flowing in the second channel before returning to the storage tank.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, le procédé peut, en outre, comporter les étapes suivantes :

  • détermination d'au moins une information relative à l'électrolyte s'écoulant dans le premier canal et/ou dans le deuxième canal, et
  • modification d'au moins une caractéristique du traitement d'anodisation, cette modification étant réalisée en fonction de l'information relative à l'électrolyte déterminée.
In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further comprise the following steps:
  • determining at least one information relating to the electrolyte flowing in the first channel and / or in the second channel, and
  • modification of at least one characteristic of the anodization treatment, this modification being carried out as a function of the information relating to the determined electrolyte.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description suivante de modes particuliers de réalisation de l'invention, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, en référence aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente un exemple de dispositif selon l'invention, et
  • les figures 2 et 3 représentent d'autres exemples de dispositifs selon l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description of particular embodiments of the invention, given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 represents an example of a device according to the invention, and
  • the figures 2 and 3 represent other examples of devices according to the invention.

Description détaillée de modes de réalisationDetailed description of embodiments

On a représenté à la figure 1 un exemple de dispositif 1 selon l'invention. Le dispositif 1 comporte la pièce à traiter 3 ainsi qu'un générateur 5. La pièce à traiter 3 est destinée à subir un traitement d'anodisation, de préférence d'oxydation micro-arcs. Le générateur 5 permet de réaliser cette anodisation. Comme représenté, une première borne du générateur 5 est reliée électriquement à la pièce 3 et une deuxième borne du générateur 5 est reliée électriquement à une contre-électrode 7 située en regard de la pièce 3. Le générateur 5 est avantageusement configuré pour appliquer un courant alternatif.We have shown figure 1 an example of device 1 according to the invention. The device 1 comprises the workpiece 3 and a generator 5. The workpiece 3 is intended to undergo anodizing treatment, preferably microarray oxidation. The generator 5 makes it possible to perform this anodization. As shown, a first terminal of the generator 5 is electrically connected to the part 3 and a second terminal of the generator 5 is electrically connected to a counter-electrode 7 situated opposite the part 3. The generator 5 is advantageously configured to apply a current alternative.

La contre-électrode 7 est préférentiellement composée d'acier inoxydable. Plus généralement, on peut utiliser pour la contre-électrode 7 tout matériau conducteur de l'électricité compatible avec la mise en oeuvre d'un traitement d'anodisation.Counter-electrode 7 is preferably composed of stainless steel. More generally, it is possible to use for the counterelectrode 7 any electrically conductive material compatible with the implementation of anodization treatment.

Le dispositif 1 comporte une chambre de traitement 10 dans laquelle le traitement d'anodisation est destiné à être réalisé, la pièce à traiter 3 constituant une première paroi de la chambre de traitement 10 et la contre-électrode 7 constituant une paroi de la chambre de traitement 10 située en regard de la première paroi. Un électrolyte 11 est présent dans la chambre de traitement 10 entre la pièce 3 et la contre-électrode 7. L'électrolyte 11 a une composition chimique permettant la réalisation du traitement d'anodisation de la pièce 3. Comme illustré, la contre-électrode 7 n'est pas immergée dans l'électrolyte 11. La contre-électrode 7 délimite la chambre de traitement 10.The device 1 comprises a treatment chamber 10 in which the anodizing treatment is intended to be carried out, the workpiece 3 constituting a first wall of the treatment chamber 10 and the counter electrode 7 constituting a wall of the treatment chamber. treatment 10 located opposite the first wall. An electrolyte 11 is present in the treatment chamber 10 between the piece 3 and the counter-electrode 7. The electrolyte 11 has a chemical composition that makes it possible to perform the anodizing treatment of the part 3. As illustrated, the counter-electrode 7 is not immersed in the electrolyte 11. The counter-electrode 7 delimits the treatment chamber 10.

Ainsi, comme illustré, la pièce à traiter 3 n'est pas immergée dans l'électrolyte 11 présent dans la chambre de traitement 10. La pièce 3 constituant une paroi de la chambre de traitement 10, seule la surface S de la pièce 3 à traiter est en contact avec l'électrolyte 11. Dans l'exemple illustré, la pièce 3 est traitée sur l'intégralité de sa longueur i.e. l'intégralité de sa plus grande dimension. Bien entendu, on ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention lorsque la pièce est traitée sur une partie seulement de sa longueur. On peut donc aussi bien réaliser dans le cadre de l'invention un traitement d'anodisation sur une partie seulement d'une surface d'une pièce ou sur l'intégralité d'une surface d'une pièce.Thus, as illustrated, the workpiece 3 is not immersed in the electrolyte 11 present in the treatment chamber 10. The workpiece 3 constituting a wall of the treatment chamber 10, only the surface S of the workpiece 3 to process is in contact with the electrolyte 11. In the example shown, the piece 3 is treated over its entire length ie the entirety of its largest dimension. Of course, it is not beyond the scope of the present invention when the part is treated on only part of its length. It can therefore be realized as well in the context of the invention an anodizing treatment on only a part of a surface of a room or on the entirety of a surface of a room.

La chambre de traitement 10 comporte, en outre, deux joints d'étanchéité 13a et 13b situés en regard l'un de l'autre formant deux parois distinctes de la chambre de traitement. Comme illustré, les joints d'étanchéité 13a et 13b sont présents aux extrémités supérieures et inférieures de la chambre de traitement 10. Les joints 13a et 13b peuvent être formés d'un matériau souple.The treatment chamber 10 further comprises two seals 13a and 13b located opposite one another forming two separate walls of the treatment chamber. As illustrated, the seals 13a and 13b are present at the upper and lower ends of the processing chamber 10. The seals 13a and 13b may be formed of a flexible material.

Ainsi, dans l'exemple de dispositif 1 illustré, l'électrolyte 11 utilisé pour l'anodisation est contenu entre la pièce 3 et la contre-électrode 7 par une étanchéité statique utilisant les joints souples 13a et 13b. La chambre de traitement 10 constitue ainsi un réservoir d'électrolyte 11 pour réaliser le revêtement sur la surface S de la pièce 3. Comme mentionné plus haut, la chambre de traitement 10 a un volume et des dimensions adaptés aux dimensions et à la géométrie de la surface S de la pièce 3 à traiter. Dans l'exemple illustré, la chambre de traitement 10 définit un unique compartiment.Thus, in the exemplary device 1 illustrated, the electrolyte 11 used for the anodization is contained between the part 3 and the counter electrode 7 by a static seal using the flexible seals 13a and 13b. The treatment chamber 10 thus constitutes an electrolyte reservoir 11 for effecting the coating on the surface S of the part 3. As mentioned above, the treatment chamber 10 has a volume and dimensions adapted to the dimensions and geometry of the the surface S of the part 3 to be treated. In the illustrated example, the processing chamber 10 defines a single compartment.

Le dispositif 1 comporte, en outre, un système 20 pour le stockage et la circulation de l'électrolyte 11. Ce système 20 comporte une cuve de stockage 21 dans laquelle l'électrolyte 11 est stocké, la température de l'électrolyte 11 stocké dans la cuve de stockage étant maintenue à une valeur fixe par un système de refroidissement (non représenté). Le pH de l'électrolyte 11 présent dans la cuve de stockage 10 est aussi maintenu à une valeur fixe. Lors du traitement d'anodisation, l'électrolyte 11 provenant de la cuve de stockage 21 s'écoule au travers d'un premier canal 23 vers la chambre de traitement 10. Le système 20 comporte, en outre, un deuxième canal 25 permettant de faire s'écouler l'électrolyte 11 depuis la chambre de traitement 10 vers la cuve de stockage 21. Le deuxième canal 25 permet l'évacuation de l'électrolyte 11 présent dans la chambre de traitement 10 et de renvoyer ce dernier vers la cuve de stockage 21 où il pourra être refroidi. La circulation de l'électrolyte 11 dans le système 20 est assurée par une pompe 27. La pompe 27 peut, par exemple, être une pompe commercialisée sous la dénomination YB1-25, par la société TKEN.The device 1 further comprises a system 20 for the storage and circulation of the electrolyte 11. This system 20 comprises a storage tank 21 in which the electrolyte 11 is stored, the temperature of the electrolyte 11 stored in the storage tank being maintained at a fixed value by a cooling system (not shown). The pH of the electrolyte 11 present in the storage tank 10 is also maintained at a fixed value. During the anodization treatment, the electrolyte 11 from the storage tank 21 flows through a first channel 23 to the treatment chamber 10. The system 20 further comprises a second channel 25 allowing flowing the electrolyte 11 from the treatment chamber 10 to the storage tank 21. The second channel 25 allows the evacuation of the electrolyte 11 present in the treatment chamber 10 and return it to the tank of storage 21 where it can be cooled. Circulation of the electrolyte 11 in the system 20 is provided by a pump 27. The pump 27 may, for example, be a pump marketed under the name YB1-25, by the company TKEN.

On a représenté à la figure 1 des flèches reproduisant le sens de circulation de l'électrolyte 11. Le débit d'écoulement de l'électrolyte 11 imposé par la pompe 27 permet un renouvellement adéquat de l'électrolyte 11 dans la chambre de traitement 10 afin de réaliser par anodisation le revêtement souhaité. Il peut être avantageux que la pompe 27 impose à l'électrolyte 11 un débit égal à environ 1 fois le volume de la chambre de traitement 10 par minute. Plus généralement, la pompe 27 peut avantageusement imposer à l'électrolyte 11 un débit compris entre 0,1 fois et 10 fois le volume de la chambre de traitement 10 par minute.We have shown figure 1 arrows reproducing the flow direction of the electrolyte 11. The flow rate of the electrolyte 11 imposed by the pump 27 allows a suitable renewal of the electrolyte 11 in the treatment chamber 10 to achieve by anodizing the desired coating. It may be advantageous for the pump 27 to impose on the electrolyte 11 a flow equal to approximately 1 time the volume of the treatment chamber 10 per minute. More generally, the pump 27 may advantageously impose on the electrolyte 11 a flow rate of between 0.1 times and 10 times the volume of the treatment chamber 10 per minute.

Avantageusement, l'écoulement de l'électrolyte 11 depuis la cuve de stockage 21 vers la chambre de traitement 10 et depuis la chambre de traitement 10 vers la cuve de stockage 21 n'est pas interrompu durant le traitement d'anodisation. En d'autres termes, on peut de manière préférée renouveler en continu l'électrolyte 11 présent dans la chambre de traitement 10 durant le traitement d'anodisation.Advantageously, the flow of the electrolyte 11 from the storage tank 21 to the treatment chamber 10 and from the treatment chamber 10 to the storage tank 21 is not interrupted during the anodizing treatment. In other words, it is preferable to continuously renew the electrolyte 11 present in the treatment chamber 10 during the anodizing treatment.

Le premier canal 23 peut présenter sur tout ou partie de sa longueur un diamètre d1 inférieur ou égal à 10 cm, par exemple compris entre 1 cm et 3 cm. Le deuxième canal 25 peut présenter sur tout ou partie de sa longueur un diamètre d2 inférieur ou égal à 10 cm, par exemple compris entre 1 cm et 3 cm. La chambre de traitement 10 peut avoir un volume inférieur ou égal à 0,5 m3, par exemple compris entre 10 dm3 et 40 dm3. La cuve de stockage 21 peut avoir un volume supérieur ou égal à 0,5 m3, par exemple compris entre 0,5 m3 et 2 m3.The first channel 23 may have all or part of its length a diameter d 1 less than or equal to 10 cm, for example between 1 cm and 3 cm. The second channel 25 may have all or part of its length a diameter d 2 less than or equal to 10 cm, for example between 1 cm and 3 cm. The treatment chamber 10 may have a volume less than or equal to 0.5 m 3 , for example between 10 dm 3 and 40 dm 3 . The storage tank 21 may have a volume greater than or equal to 0.5 m 3 , for example between 0.5 m 3 and 2 m 3 .

Les matériaux formant les joints 13a et 13b, premier canal 23 et deuxième canal 25 sont choisis de manière à éviter le passage du courant entre la contre-électrode 7 et la pièce 3.The materials forming the seals 13a and 13b, first channel 23 and second channel 25 are chosen so as to avoid the passage of current between the counter-electrode 7 and the part 3.

Le dispositif 1 illustré à la figure 1 permet de réaliser un procédé de traitement par anodisation pièce par pièce. Comme illustré, le procédé mis en oeuvre grâce au dispositif 1 décrit à la figure 1 est avantageusement dépourvu d'une étape de masquage d'une partie de la surface S de la pièce 3 ou de mise en place d'au moins une épargne sur la surface S de la pièce 3 à traiter.The device 1 illustrated in figure 1 allows to perform an anodizing treatment process piece by piece. As illustrated, the method implemented by means of the device 1 described in FIG. figure 1 is advantageously devoid of a step of masking a portion of the surface S of the workpiece 3 or of setting up at least one saving on the surface S of the workpiece 3 to be treated.

L'épaisseur finale du revêtement formé après traitement d'anodisation mesurée perpendiculairement à la surface de la pièce sous-jacente peut être comprise entre 2 µm et 200 µm.The final thickness of the coating formed after anodizing treatment measured perpendicularly to the surface of the underlying part may be between 2 μm and 200 μm.

On donne ci-après un exemple de conditions opératoires qui peuvent être mises en oeuvre pour effectuer un traitement d'oxydation micro-arcs à l'aide d'un dispositif 1 tel que décrit plus haut :

  • Courant imposé : de 40 Ampères/dm2 à 400 Ampères/dm2,
  • Tension : de 180 Volts à 600 Volts,
  • Fréquence des puises : de 10 Hz à 500 Hz,
  • Durée du traitement : de 10 minutes à 90 minutes,
  • Température de l'électrolyte dans la cuve de stockage : de 17°C à 30°C,
  • pH de l'électrolyte dans la cuve de stockage : de 6 à 12,
  • Conductivité de l'électrolyte dans la cuve de stockage : de 200 mS/m à 500 mS/m.
An example of operating conditions that can be implemented to carry out a micro-arcs oxidation treatment using a device 1 as described above is given below:
  • Current imposed: from 40 Ampere / dm 2 to 400 Ampere / dm 2 ,
  • Voltage: from 180 volts to 600 volts,
  • Frequency of pulses: from 10 Hz to 500 Hz,
  • Duration of treatment: from 10 minutes to 90 minutes,
  • Temperature of the electrolyte in the storage tank: from 17 ° C to 30 ° C,
  • pH of the electrolyte in the storage tank: from 6 to 12,
  • Conductivity of the electrolyte in the storage tank: from 200 mS / m to 500 mS / m.

En particulier, on peut utiliser pour la réalisation d'un traitement d'oxydation micro-arcs un électrolyte 11 ayant la composition suivante :

  • eau déminéralisée,
  • hydroxyde de Potassium (KOH) à une concentration comprise entre 5 g/L et 50 g/L,
  • silicate de sodium (Na2SiO3) à une concentration comprise entre 5 g/L et 50 g/L, et
  • phosphate de potassium (K3PO4) à une concentration comprise entre 5 g/L et 50 g/L.
In particular, an electrolyte 11 having the following composition can be used for carrying out a micro-arcing oxidation treatment:
  • Demineralized Water,
  • potassium hydroxide (KOH) at a concentration of between 5 g / L and 50 g / L,
  • sodium silicate (Na 2 SiO 3 ) at a concentration of between 5 g / L and 50 g / L, and
  • potassium phosphate (K 3 PO 4 ) at a concentration of between 5 g / L and 50 g / L.

L'invention n'est toutefois pas limitée à la mise en oeuvre d'un procédé d'oxydation micro-arcs. On peut réaliser à l'aide d'un dispositif selon l'invention tout type d'anodisation comme par exemple une oxydation anodique sulfurique (OAS), une oxydation anodique chromique (OAC), une oxydation anodique sulfotartrique (OAST) ou une oxydation anodique sulfo-phosphorique (OASP).The invention is however not limited to the implementation of a micro-arcs oxidation process. With the aid of a device according to the invention can be achieved any type of anodization such as for example anodic oxidation sulfuric (OAS), chromic anodic oxidation (OAC), anodic oxidation sulfotartric (OAST) or anodic oxidation sulfo-phosphoric acid (OASP).

La pièce traitée peut, par exemple, être une pale, par exemple en titane, ou un corps de pompe. On peut aussi réparer une couche d'anodisation endommagée à l'aide d'un dispositif selon l'invention lequel peut permettre d'effectuer une réparation localisée par formation d'un revêtement par anodisation uniquement dans la zone endommagée.The treated part may, for example, be a blade, for example titanium, or a pump body. It is also possible to repair a damaged anodizing layer by means of a device according to the invention, which can make it possible to carry out localized repair by forming an anodizing coating only in the damaged zone.

Dans une variante non illustrée, on peut traiter une pluralité de pièces distinctes à l'aide d'une pluralité de dispositifs selon l'invention reliés ou non à un même générateur. Le traitement de ces pièces peut être effectué simultanément ou non.In a variant not illustrated, it is possible to process a plurality of distinct parts using a plurality of devices according to the invention connected or not to the same generator. The treatment of these parts can be performed simultaneously or not.

La cuve de stockage 21 est dédiée au stockage et au renouvellement de l'électrolyte et aucun traitement d'anodisation n'est effectué dans celle-ci. En séparant la cuve de stockage 21 de la chambre de traitement 10, il est possible de configurer les dispositifs selon l'invention pour réaliser des traitements complémentaires à l'anodisation comme il va être détaillé dans la suite. Ces traitements complémentaires à l'anodisation ne sont à la connaissance des inventeurs pas mis en oeuvre ou pas mis en oeuvre de manière satisfaisante dans les procédés connus de l'état de la technique.The storage tank 21 is dedicated to the storage and renewal of the electrolyte and no anodizing treatment is performed therein. By separating the storage tank 21 from the chamber processing 10, it is possible to configure the devices according to the invention to carry out additional processing anodizing as will be detailed in the following. These treatments complementary to the anodization are not known to the inventors not implemented or not implemented satisfactorily in the known methods of the state of the art.

On a représenté à la figure 2 une variante de dispositif 1 selon l'invention. Dans cet exemple, le dispositif 1 comporte en outre un dispositif de filtrage 52 situé entre la chambre de traitement 10 et la cuve de stockage 21. L'électrolyte présent dans le deuxième canal 25 s'écoule vers le dispositif de filtrage 52 pour une fois filtré retourner vers la cuve de stockage 21 par l'intermédiaire du canal 25a. La mise en oeuvre d'un tel dispositif de filtrage 52 peut avantageusement permettre d'éliminer par exemple les particules non attachées à la couche anodique formée afin de purifier l'électrolyte 11 avant son retour vers la chambre de traitement 10.We have shown figure 2 an alternative device 1 according to the invention. In this example, the device 1 further comprises a filtering device 52 located between the treatment chamber 10 and the storage tank 21. The electrolyte present in the second channel 25 flows towards the filtering device 52 for once. filtered back to the storage tank 21 through the channel 25a. The implementation of such a filtering device 52 may advantageously make it possible, for example, to remove particles not attached to the anode layer formed in order to purify the electrolyte 11 before it returns to the treatment chamber 10.

On a représenté à la figure 3 une variante de dispositif 1 selon l'invention. Le dispositif 1 comporte un capteur 60 permettant de déterminer une information relative à l'électrolyte 11 s'écoulant dans le premier canal 23. Ce capteur 60 permet en fonction de l'information déterminée d'agir sur le générateur 5 de manière à modifier au moins une caractéristique du traitement d'anodisation effectué. En variante, le capteur peut déterminer une information relative à l'électrolyte s'écoulant dans le deuxième canal, voire à la fois déterminer une information relative à l'électrolyte s'écoulant dans le premier canal et une information relative à l'électrolyte s'écoulant dans le deuxième canal, afin de modifier en fonction de ces informations le traitement d'anodisation effectué. Cet exemple de dispositif 1 selon l'invention permet avantageusement en effectuant la mesure en aval et/ou en amont de la chambre de traitement 10 d'obtenir des informations plus fiables que celles observables dans une chambre réactionnelle et de réaliser ainsi un pilotage satisfaisant de l'anodisation effectuée dans la chambre de traitement en fonction des informations déterminées. Typiquement, l'information relative à l'électrolyte déterminée par le capteur peut être l'une au moins des informations suivantes : la concentration en espèces métalliques, par exemple en aluminium, au sein de l'électrolyte, le pH et la conductivité de l'électrolyte. En effet, l'électrolyte peut se charger en espèces métalliques au fur et à mesure de l'avancement de l'anodisation et ce paramètre tout comme le pH ou la conductivité de l'électrolyte peuvent avoir une influence sur le traitement d'anodisation effectué. Le pilotage en direct de l'anodisation effectuée peut être d'intérêt notamment pour des traitements d'anodisation de pièces destinées à être utilisées dans le domaine aéronautique et/ou lors de la mise en oeuvre de traitements d'anodisation relativement longs.We have shown figure 3 an alternative device 1 according to the invention. The device 1 comprises a sensor 60 making it possible to determine information relating to the electrolyte 11 flowing in the first channel 23. This sensor 60 makes it possible, depending on the determined information, to act on the generator 5 so as to modify the less a characteristic of the anodizing treatment performed. As a variant, the sensor can determine information relating to the electrolyte flowing in the second channel, or at the same time determine information relating to the electrolyte flowing in the first channel and information relating to the electrolyte. flowing in the second channel, in order to modify according to this information the anodizing treatment carried out. This example of device 1 according to the invention advantageously makes it possible by measuring downstream and / or upstream of the processing chamber 10 to obtain more reliable information than that which is observable in a reaction chamber and thus to achieve a satisfactory control of the anodization carried out in the treatment chamber according to the determined information. Typically, the information relating to the electrolyte determined by the sensor may be at least one of the following information: the concentration of metal species, for example aluminum, within the electrolyte, the pH and the conductivity of the electrolyte. 'electrolyte. Indeed, the electrolyte can be charged in metallic species as the progress of the anodization and this parameter as the pH or the conductivity of the electrolyte can have an influence on the anodizing treatment performed. The direct control of the anodization carried out may be of interest especially for anodizing treatments of parts intended to be used in the aeronautical field and / or during the implementation of relatively long anodizing treatments.

L'expression « comportant/contenant/comprenant un(e) » doit se comprendre comme « comportant/contenant/comprenant au moins un(e) ».The expression "comprising / containing / including a" should be understood as "containing / containing / including at least one".

L'expression « compris(e) entre ... et ... » ou « allant de ... à ... » doit se comprendre comme incluant les bornes.The expression "understood between ... and ..." or "from ... to ..." must be understood as including the boundaries.

Claims (12)

  1. A device (1) for performing anodizing treatment on a part (3), the device (1) comprising:
    • a treatment chamber (10) comprising a part (3) to be treated and a counter-electrode (7) situated facing the part to be treated, the part (3) to be treated constituting a first wall of the treatment chamber (10) and the counter-electrode (7) constituting a wall of the treatment chamber (10) situated facing the first wall;
    • a generator (5), a first terminal of the generator being electrically connected to the part (3) to be treated and a second terminal of the generator being electrically connected to the counter-electrode (7); and
    • a system (20) for storing and circulating an electrolyte (11), the system (20) comprising:
    • a storage vessel (21), different from the treatment chamber (10), for containing the electrolyte (11), the treatment chamber (10) having a volume that is less than the volume of the storage vessel (21); and
    • a circuit (23; 25) for circulating the electrolyte in order to enable the electrolyte to flow between the storage vessel (21) and the treatment chamber (10).
  2. A device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes at least one sealing gasket (13a; 13b) constituting a second wall of the treatment chamber (10), the second wall being different from the first wall.
  3. A device (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the system (20) for storing and circulating the electrolyte further includes a pump (27) for driving circulation of the electrolyte (11) through said system (20).
  4. A device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the ratio (volume of the treatment chamber)/(volume of the storage vessel) is less than or equal to 0.2.
  5. A device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the circuit (23; 25) for circulating the electrolyte comprises:
    • a first channel (23) for enabling the electrolyte (11) coming from the storage vessel (21) to flow to the treatment chamber (10); and
    • a second channel (25) for enabling the electrolyte (11) to flow from the treatment chamber (10) to the storage vessel (21).
  6. A method of anodizing a part (3), the method comprising the following steps:
    • forming a coating on a surface (S) of the part (3) by anodizing treatment using a device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, an electrolyte (11) being present in the treatment chamber (10) during the anodizing treatment, and the electrolyte flowing in the electrolyte circulation circuit (23; 25) during the anodizing treatment.
  7. A method according to claim 6, characterized in that the anodizing treatment is micro arc oxidation treatment.
  8. A method according to claim 6 or claim 7, characterized in that during the anodizing treatment:
    • the electrolyte (11) coming from the storage vessel (21) flows to the treatment chamber (10) through the first channel (23); and
    • the electrolyte (11) flows from the treatment chamber (10) to the storage vessel (21) through the second channel (25).
  9. A method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the electrolyte (11) present in the treatment chamber (10) is continuously renewed during the anodizing treatment.
  10. A method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the electrolyte (11) flows in the electrolyte circulation circuit (23; 25) at a flow rate lying in the range 0.1 times to 10 times the volume of the treatment chamber (10), per minute.
  11. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that it further includes a step of filtering the electrolyte (11) flowing in the second channel (25) prior to its return into the storage vessel (21).
  12. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that it further includes the following steps:
    • determining at least information relating to the electrolyte (11) flowing in the first channel (23) and/or in the second channel (25); and
    • modifying at least one characteristic of the anodizing treatment, this modification being performed as a function of the information determined about the electrolyte.
EP15725761.9A 2014-04-30 2015-04-20 Device intended for implementing an anodization treatment and anodization treatment Active EP3137656B1 (en)

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FR1453990A FR3020642B1 (en) 2014-04-30 2014-04-30 DEVICE INTENDED FOR IMPLEMENTING AN ANODIZATION TREATMENT
PCT/FR2015/051062 WO2015166165A1 (en) 2014-04-30 2015-04-20 Device intended for implementing an anodization treatment and anodization treatment

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JP (1) JP6591445B2 (en)
KR (1) KR102318129B1 (en)
CN (1) CN106661755B (en)
CA (1) CA2946692C (en)
ES (1) ES2683741T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3020642B1 (en)
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KR102343769B1 (en) * 2020-08-18 2021-12-28 한국과학기술연구원 Plasma electrolitic oxidation apparatus and method of plasma electrolitic oxidation using the same

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KR102318129B1 (en) 2021-10-27
KR20170003610A (en) 2017-01-09
PL3137656T3 (en) 2018-11-30
CA2946692A1 (en) 2015-11-05
RU2676203C2 (en) 2018-12-26
RU2016146743A (en) 2018-05-30
EP3137656A1 (en) 2017-03-08
US20170051427A1 (en) 2017-02-23
WO2015166165A1 (en) 2015-11-05
CA2946692C (en) 2022-05-10
CN106661755A (en) 2017-05-10
US10329685B2 (en) 2019-06-25
FR3020642B1 (en) 2021-07-02
CN106661755B (en) 2019-01-18
RU2016146743A3 (en) 2018-10-30
FR3020642A1 (en) 2015-11-06
JP2017516916A (en) 2017-06-22
ES2683741T3 (en) 2018-09-27
JP6591445B2 (en) 2019-10-16

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