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Key considerations for choosing between HiPIMS and Arc evaporation

PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coatings are thin films that convert solid materials into vapour in a vacuum chamber and condense them onto target surfaces. These coatings provide decorative finishes (like gold or black colours) and functional properties (such as hardness and corrosion resistance) for products ranging from watches to tools.


Schematic illustration of HiPIMS process (courtesy of Faunhofer IST)

Schematic illustration of HiPIMS process (courtesy of Faunhofer IST)


Luxury coatings for watches are not only for aesthetic functionality but also to provide critical performance such as sweat resistance (constant skin contact), impact & scratch resistance (daily wear), water resistance (maintaining case sealing), UV stability (preventing colour fade) and

chemical resistance (cosmetics, lotions). Either HiPIMS or Arc is used for decorative coatings to achieve hard and bright colours.


A schematic of HIPIMS process, picture by: PhD Barnali Biswas

A schematic of HIPIMS process, picture by: PhD Barnali Biswas


Let's compare HiPIMS (High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering) and Arc PVD for decorative coatings:


🎱HiPIMS advantages:


  • Superior surface smoothness, ideal for luxury finishes

  • Better coating uniformity and density

  • Excellent adhesion due to high ionisation

  • Lower droplet/defect density

  • Good for complex geometries



⚡️Arc PVD advantages:


  • Higher deposition rates

  • Better coating hardness typically

  • More established/mature technology

  • Lower equipment costs

  • Generally easier process control


Key considerations for choosing between HiPIMS and arc:


Surface Quality Requirements


🎱HiPIMS for mirror finishes, ultra-smooth decorative

⚡️Arc for functional coatings where some roughness is acceptable


Production Volume/Speed


🎱HiPIMS is better for premium quality requirements

⚡️Arc is better for high-throughput


Substrate Geometry

🎱HiPIMS is better for intricate shapes

⚡️Arc is simpler for flat/regular shapes


Cost Structure

🎱HiPIMS has higher equipment/running costs

⚡️Arc is more economical for large volumes


Colour Control

HiPIMS better colour consistency

Arc exhibits more variation between runs


What prompts you to choose either HiPIMS or Arc for your decorative coating production line?

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