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Aluminium high-vacuum coating (AHV)
Mar
Aluminium high-vacuum coating, AHV for short, applies a wafer-thin layer of aluminium to a fabric. This happens in a chamber with almost no air. The layer has a silver sheen, repels water and oil and reflects heat. The FireMat Silk-A Edition also has such a layer.
How does aluminium high-vacuum coating work?
- First, specialists clean the material so that the aluminium adheres well later.
- Then machines pump almost all the air out of a chamber.
- Next, they heat aluminium until it evaporates. The vapour settles evenly on the fabric.
- Finally, they check that the layer is equally thick everywhere.
Specialists also call the process vapour deposition. Wikipedia explains more.
What is the coating used for?
It is found in many everyday items, for example in emergency blankets and food packaging films. On technical fabrics it offers several advantages:
- It repels water and oil.
- It reflects heat.
- It has a silver sheen and looks modern.
- The fabric stays light and flexible.
The FireMat Silk-A Edition
The Silk-A Edition has three layers. The core is made of para-aramid. On top is the aluminium layer. Underneath, silicone provides grip. That is why it is particularly suitable for coffee machines and sinks, where water is often spilled. In addition: certified by TÜV SÜD according to DIN EN ISO 11925-2.
Important: on an induction hob, the Silk-A turns brown. For this, it is better to use the Black Edition or the Silk Edition.
Aluminium or silicone?
An aluminium layer reflects heat and shines. Silicone, on the other hand, makes the surface non-slip and soft. The Silk-A Edition combines both: aluminium on top, silicone underneath. That is why the mat stays firmly in place and is still easy to clean.
Caring for the surface
Simply wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners and scouring pads, because the layer is very thin. You can read how aluminium and silicone differ in the article Polysiloxane coating. The article FireMat variants at a glance also compares all editions.
