SurTec 650: solution for aluminium in the aerospace industry

In the aerospace and aeronautics industry, component reliability is a top priority. Corrosion is a major challenge for aluminium surfaces, especially when exposed to extreme environments, such as those at high altitudes or in coastal areas.
When it comes to maximum salt spray resistance on aluminium, both painted and unpainted, SurTec 650 emerges as one of the most advanced and safe solutions available on the market today.

SurTec 650: the right choice for the aerospace industry

SurTec 650 is a trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) based conversion treatment developed to provide effective and sustainable corrosion protection. Designed to replace traditional hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) based technologies, SurTec 650 complies with the most stringent environmental regulations, including RoHS and REACH.

In the aerospace industry, where every component must withstand extreme operating conditions, the choice of a surface treatment such as SurTec 650 is not only a question of performance, but also of safety and sustainability. Aluminium alloys used to make structures, panels and electronic parts require protection against corrosion, while maintaining essential properties such as low electrical contact resistance.

Salt spray resistance: certified performance

One of the distinguishing features of SurTec 650 is its high corrosion resistance, verified through rigorous salt spray tests according to international standards such as DIN EN ISO 9227 and ASTM B117.

In particular, SurTec 650 is able to guarantee:

• Up to 500 hours of salt spray resistance on non-heat-treated aluminium alloys.
• 336 hours on heat-treated alloys.
• 120-168 hours on alloys with a high percentage of copper or zinc.

These results meet the requirements of military specifications MIL-DTL-81706B and MIL-DTL-5541F, confirming its suitability for aerospace applications.

Maximum versatility for painted and unpainted aluminium

Another great advantage of SurTec 650 is its compatibility with painting processes. Indeed, this treatment protects the aluminium and also improves the adhesion of paints and coatings, making it ideal as a pre-treatment for painted components destined for the aerospace industry.

From nacelles to structural elements, from electronic components to mechanical supports, SurTec 650 provides uniform and long-lasting protection, protecting components from corrosion even in the most difficult-to-reach areas during painting.

Advantages for the aerospace sector

Choosing SurTec 650 as a surface treatment for aluminium in the aerospace sector means you can count on:

• Superior corrosion resistance in extreme environments.
• Regulatory compliance (RoHS, REACH) and absence of Cr(VI).
• Paint compatibility and improved adhesion.
• Certified electrical conductivity, ideal for electronic components.
• Ease of application (dip, spray, brush), even on large surfaces or complex geometries.
• Reduced environmental risk and increased sustainability of production processes.

Conclusion

SurTec 650 is a safe choice for ensuring the longevity and reliability of both painted and unpainted aluminium components. Its ability to resist salt spray and promote paint adhesion makes it the right ally for the aerospace industry, where the highest quality is demanded.

If you want to find out how to integrate this surface treatment into your production process, please contact us: we will be happy to hear your request.