Chromatization – a Process Performed by “Orao” for Domestic and Global Companies
“Orao” a.d. Bijeljina, within its Electrochemical Surface Protection Department, carries out a specialized process known as chromatization, i.e. aluminum passivation. This process serves to protect the material from oxidation (corrosion) and to create an optimal base for subsequent coating and painting.
The Head of the Electrochemical and Surface Protection Department, Ms. Stana Stanišić, explained that “Orao” employees perform the chromatization process on one of seven mechanized lines within the galvanizing facility.
“Chromatization, or aluminum passivation, is carried out using two types of solutions, based on trivalent and hexavalent chromium. As hexavalent chromium is prohibited in the European Union, there is an increasing shift toward the use of commercial solutions based on trivalent chromium. A chromium coating on the surface provides excellent protection against oxidation (corrosion) and represents an outstanding base for painting,” emphasized Ms. Stanišić.
She further pointed out that the aluminum passivation process based on trivalent chromium, performed at the Bijeljina-based “Orao,” has been approved by KURZIUS Aerospace from Germany, a company operating in the field of civil aviation.
“For many years, we have been performing chromatization, as well as anodic oxidation, for companies from the mechanical engineering sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and the wider region. As an example, we can mention the company UNIMET from Kać, Serbia, with which ‘Orao’ has a successful cooperation. Analyses also indicate that an increasing number of domestic companies are turning to us for aluminum chromatization processes based on trivalent chromium,” Ms. Stanišić stated.
The Bijeljina-based company “Orao,” which has been operating for eight decades, has long been carrying out complex electrochemical surface protection processes in compliance with high technological standards. A new facility dedicated to these purposes was opened in 2012. Within this facility, more than fifteen processes are performed daily across seven mechanized lines, some of which are unique at the European and global level.
The core business activity of “Orao” a.d. Bijeljina is the overhaul of aircraft turbojet engines.
