Holistic process optimization in surface technology

Goods carriers and components ready for cleaning with Bantleon cleaning media. (Copyright: Hermann Bantleon GmbH)

The cleaning media from Bantleon ready for use. (Copyright: Hermann Bantleon GmbH)

VCI packaging by Bantleon for safe storage and secure transportation. (Copyright: Hermann Bantleon GmbH)

Clean components are a central quality factor in industrial manufacturing. Together with IQM Surface Technology GmbH, Hermann Bantleon GmbH has demonstrated how demanding requirements in surface technology can be efficiently and sustainably implemented through a holistic view of the entire process chain. From processing to component cleaning to secure VCI packaging.

The starting point was the commissioning of a new cleaning system at IQM. The challenge was to find a partner for a cleaning medium that can be used for all alloys offered by the company to its customers – while maintaining consistently high cleaning performance.

"With the commissioning of a new system in 2021, we faced the task of finding a cleaning medium suitable for all alloys we process. At the same time, we had to ensure that we reliably meet the high quality standards of our customers," explains Sebastian Trakies, Commercial Manager of IQM Surface Technology GmbH. "With Bantleon, we found this partner and can clean all components in our cleaning system as needed to ensure the quality of our customers on a long-term basis."

The focus of the project was to reliably achieve clean components while optimally coordinating all process steps. After vibratory polishing, specially tailored cleaning media ensure the effective removal of contaminants. The subsequent residual dirt analysis in a cleanroom guarantees compliance with the required quality standards. In this way, permanently clean components and high process security for subsequent manufacturing steps are achieved.

A key success factor was the individual, technical consulting provided by Bantleon throughout the entire process. In addition to selecting the appropriate cleaning medium, Bantleon also supported IQM in designing the suitable VCI packaging. This reliably protects the cleaned components from corrosion and prepares them safely for storage and shipping. Cleaning, corrosion protection, and packaging were considered as an integrated overall system and precisely tailored to IQM's requirements.

"We especially appreciate that Bantleon's technical advisor is always available and supports us directly," says Melanie Rehm, Production Manager at IQM Surface Technology GmbH.

The joint success story shows that successful cleaning and high-quality surface technology do not arise from individual products, but through partnership collaboration, technical expertise, and a consistent focus on the entire process. This way, quality, efficiency, and sustainability can be increased simultaneously – an approach that is increasingly gaining importance in modern surface technology.