PVD & PECVD Coatings

Ultra-thin, ultra-hard vacuum-deposited films engineered for maximum wear resistance, hardness, and performance across the most demanding industrial, aerospace, defense, and medical applications.

1000–5000

Hardness (Hv)

<5 μm

Max Thickness

Deposition Methods

Technology Overview

Engineered for Maximum Protection and Performance

Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) represent Calico's most versatile thin-film coating platform. Using vacuum environments and plasma-assisted processes, these technologies deposit ultra-thin, ultra-hard films that dramatically extend component service life across virtually any substrate material.

Calico operates three proprietary deposition systems: PEMS™ (Plasma Enhanced Magnetron Sputtering) for precision multi-layer films, CAM™ (Coating Assisted by Microwaves) for low-temperature deposition on heat-sensitive substrates, and M-ARC Cathodic Arc for high-throughput production coating. This multi-method capability enables precise matching of coating composition and deposition parameters to each application's specific requirements.

With hardness ranging from 1000 to 5000 Hv and film thickness from nanometers to under 7 microns, PVD and PECVD coatings are specified for cutting and forming tools, aerospace and defense components, precision medical devices, firearms, and decorative applications — wherever surfaces face extreme wear, elevated friction, or thermal stress.

5000 Hv

Max Hardness

<5 μm

Max Film Thickness

1100°C

Max Use Temperature

Proprietary Methods

Process Overview

Precision at Every Step

Step 01

Surface Preparation

Precision cleaning and surface profiling to remove all contaminants and oxides. Proper adhesion is critical — Calico's preparation protocols are validated under AS9100D.

Step 02

Vacuum Loading

Parts are fixtured and loaded into the deposition chamber. The chamber is evacuated to high vacuum and ion-bombarded for final surface activation immediately before deposition.

Step 03

PVD / PECVD Deposition

Target material is vaporized using PEMS™, CAM™, or M-ARC processes and deposited as a precisely controlled thin film onto the substrate surface via plasma activation.

Step 04

Quality Inspection

Visual inspection and coating thickness verification, with adhesion and hardness testing as required. Each part ships with full traceability documentation, meeting AS9100D and customer-specific requirements.

Why PVD & PECVD

The Advantages of Thin-Film Coatings

Extreme Hardness

Hardness levels from 1000 to 5000 Hv — dramatically outperforming electroplating and thermal spray alternatives for wear-critical applications.

Three Deposition Methods

PEMS™, CAM™, and M-ARC processes allow tailored selection for precision, temperature-sensitive, or high-throughput production requirements.

Low-Temperature Option

CAM™ microwave-assisted deposition enables coating of heat-sensitive substrates, including pre-hardened steels, plastics, and precision-ground components.

Ultra-Low Friction & Wear Resistance

Create a durable, low-friction surface that reduces wear, minimizes energy loss, and improves component performance.

PVD & PECVD Coatings

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