The Science Behind Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD)

When it comes to achieving metal finishes that are both visually stunning and built to last, few technologies rival vacuum coating more specifically, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD). At Atomic PVD, this process is at the heart of what we do. It’s how we transform raw stainless steel into refined surfaces that grace Australia’s most sophisticated architectural and interior projects.

What Is Vacuum Coating?

Vacuum coating is a surface finishing process that takes place in a controlled, oxygen-free environment. By removing air from a sealed chamber, we eliminate contamination and enable metal atoms to be deposited evenly onto a substrate usually stainless steel, aluminium, or brass.

This vacuum environment is crucial. It ensures:

• Pure, uncontaminated coatings

• Even deposition on complex shapes

• Superior adhesion between coating and metal

• High performance under environmental stress

How Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) Works

Physical Vapour Deposition is one of the most advanced forms of vacuum coating. The process begins when a target metal, such as titanium, zirconium, or chromium is heated to the point of vaporisation. These vapourised metal particles then bond atom-by-atom to the surface of the component inside the vacuum chamber.

In simple terms:

The coating becomes part of the metal, not something that merely sits on top of it.

This atomic-level bonding results in a finish that is:

• Extremely hard and scratch-resistant

• Highly resistant to corrosion, tarnishing, and fading

• Uniform and consistent in tone

• Environmentally safe, using no harmful chemicals or electroplating waste

Why PVD Outperforms Traditional Coatings

Traditional plating methods such as chrome or paint coatings can peel, corrode, or fade over time. PVD, by contrast, offers a lifetime finish that maintains its integrity under heavy use and harsh conditions.

It’s no surprise that PVD is now used across industries including:

• Architecture – for cladding, balustrades, and facades

• Interior design – on tapware, lighting, and furniture

• Luxury goods – watches, jewellery, and automotive trim

The Atomic PVD Difference

While PVD is a global technology, the quality of the result depends entirely on the expertise behind it. At Atomic PVD, we’ve refined every stage of the process—from surface preparation to vacuum calibration, to ensure consistent tone, adhesion, and brilliance.

Our facility allows for:

• Precision colour control across bronze, gold, graphite, and rose gold ranges

• Custom finishes such as bead-blasted matte or brushed effects

• Sustainable processes with minimal waste and zero chemical runoff

Every finish we create is built to meet the aesthetic standards of leading architects and the performance demands of the Australian climate.

Why Choose Vacuum Coating from Atomic PVD

Choosing a PVD finish means choosing longevity, beauty, and sustainability. Whether you’re specifying materials for a high-end apartment facade or custom joinery in a hospitality space, vacuum-coated PVD delivers a perfect harmony of design and durability.