PVD Metals Selection Guide

Deep Coat Industries deposits six metals by vacuum metallizing (PVD), and the right one depends on the property you need most — conductivity, corrosion resistance, solderability, or durability. This guide maps each metal to its strengths, and how Quad-Fire layers metals to combine properties in one part.

Most selections balance four properties: conductivity (RF shielding), corrosion/wear resistance (durability), solderability (grounded contacts), and cost. Where one metal can’t deliver everything, layering solves it — for example, a high-conductivity shield beneath a durable, ground-able outer layer.

The Six Production Metals

Single-Metal vs. Multi-Layer (Quad-Fire)

One part can combine metals. Quad-Fire deposits up to four metal layers in a single draw (Dual-Fire up to two), so a design needing both maximum conductivity and a durable, groundable surface doesn’t have to compromise on one metal — no secondary operations.

How to Specify

Share the part geometry and material, the shielding target (a dB figure or the standard you must meet), grounding requirements and contact locations, the service environment, and expected volumes. From those, Deep Coat Industries recommends a single metal or a Quad-Fire stack and applies it through a single-source process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which metal is best for EMI shielding?

Copper offers the highest conductivity for RF shielding, while aluminum gives an excellent performance-to-cost balance at volume. Where durability is also required, the shield can be layered with nickel or nickel/chrome via Quad-Fire.

What is the difference between aluminum and copper coatings?

Copper is more conductive, so it delivers stronger high-frequency shielding; aluminum offers very good conductivity at lower cost — the common choice for general-purpose, high-volume coatings and reflective finishes.

Can you combine more than one metal on a part?

Yes. Quad-Fire deposits up to four metal layers in a single draw, so one part can combine, for example, a high-conductivity copper shield with a durable outer layer.

How do I choose a metal for my part?

Start from the property that matters most — conductivity, corrosion resistance, solderability, or durability — then factor in geometry, grounding, environment, and volume. Sharing your shielding target lets Deep Coat Industries recommend a metal or a layered stack.