Environmentally-Friendly Galvanic Coating of Metal Parts Used in Seat Belts
In Germany the safety seatbelt has been mandatory in new vehicles since January 1976. This component dependably saves lives on a daily basis. The metal parts used in seatbelts, have to meet stringent requirements for mechanical strength and long-term stability. These requirements are generally fulfilled by means of galvanically separated protective layers, made from nickel and chrome. However, the established chrome (VI) compounds used for chrome separation have faced scrutiny due to the REACH regulation. In an effort to use more environmentally friendly materials, ZF LIFETEC has upgraded its in-house galvanizing facility and switched to an advanced chrome (III)-based system. This improvement was implemented in 2023, in close collaboration with Dr.-Ing. Max Schlötter GmbH & Co. KG, with Schlötter also planning and carrying out the necessary conversion work.