KDF-1500i™
The midsize KDF-1500i™ system has 67% more capacity than the KDF-1000i™ system. Its compact footprint is perfect for limited manufacturing space. The system combines cathodic arc and magnetron sputtering technologies and is ideal for larger manufacturing operations and coating service providers.
More Capacity. More Capability. Still Price-Competitive.
The KDF-1500i™ is the mid-capacity step up in the KDF Technologies PVD coating system family — delivering significantly more throughput than the KDF-1000i™ with 10 rack positions, a larger coating zone, and the option to add magnetron sputtering as a second deposition technology.
For manufacturers who have outgrown entry-level capacity or who need magnetron sputtering capability alongside cathodic arc and DLC, the KDF-1500i™ is the right next step. It delivers industrial-grade PVD performance without the footprint or capital commitment of the largest KDF systems.
- 67% more coating capacity than the KDF-1000i™ — more parts per batch, lower cost per part
- Large part capability matching the KDF-1000i™ — see specifications for full dimensions
- Decorative PVD color coatings — gold, black, bronze, chrome, and the full color range
- PECVD diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings standard
- Optional magnetron sputtering — up to 3 PVD sources for expanded process capability
- KDF Technologies will optimize coatings to your exact specifications
Magnetron Sputtering — Expand Your Coating Capability
The KDF-1500i™ can be configured with optional magnetron sputtering — adding a second deposition technology alongside the standard cathodic arc and PECVD/DLC processes. This expands the range of coatings and substrate combinations the system can produce.
Magnetron sputtering delivers different coating characteristics than cathodic arc — lower droplet density, smoother surface finish on certain applications, and access to materials and coating compositions not achievable with arc alone. With up to 3 PVD sources, the KDF-1500i™ becomes one of the most capable mid-size coating platforms available.
- Optional magnetron sputtering alongside cathodic arc and PECVD/DLC
- Up to 3 PVD sources for multi-layer and multi-material coating architectures
- Smoother surface finish on applications where arc droplets are a concern
- Expanded range of coating materials including specialized alloys
- Ideal for manufacturers who need both decorative and functional coating capability
- Configure at order or add later as your coating requirements grow
Everything You Need to Know About PVD Coatings
The KDF-1500i™ deposits decorative color PVD finishes and high-performance functional wear coatings — often in the same system. Download these guides to understand your options before you configure.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COLOR PVD COATINGS
Download this guide to durable-decorative PVD options — colors, finishes, substrates, and durability.
CONSIDERING THE KDF-1500i™ FOR PERFORMANCE COATINGS?
Read this introductory guide to functional PVD coatings for industrial applications.
What the KDF-1500i™ Delivers
10-Rack Capacity
10 rack positions deliver 67% more throughput than the KDF-1000i™ — reducing cost per coated part and increasing production flexibility for growing operations.
Optional Magnetron Sputtering
Add magnetron sputtering to expand your coating range beyond what cathodic arc alone can achieve — up to 3 PVD sources for multi-layer architectures and specialized materials.
DLC / PECVD Standard
Full plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) capability for diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings is standard — no extra system or chamber required.
Large Part Capacity
Accommodates parts up to 100 cm (39 in) long — handling the full range of hardware, medical, automotive, and industrial part sizes.
Easy to Operate
Same intuitive KDF Technologies software interface as the KDF-1000i™ — operators familiar with either system can transition quickly between them.
Remote Diagnostics
Factory remote diagnostics enable KDF Technologies' support team to monitor, troubleshoot, and assist — reducing downtime and keeping your production schedule on track.
Who Uses the KDF-1500i™
The KDF-1500i™ serves manufacturers across a broad range of industries who need more capacity than the KDF-1000i™ but want the same proven KDF coating quality and support.
Plumbing & Home Hardware
Higher-volume decorative PVD color coatings for faucets, door hardware, fixtures, and architectural components.
Medical Devices
DLC and hard nitride coatings for surgical instruments, orthopedic implants, and precision medical components.
Cutting Tools & Tooling
TiN, CrN, ZrN, and magnetron-sputtered wear coatings for drills, end mills, forming tools, and inserts.
Automotive Parts
Wear-resistant and decorative coatings for engine components, trim, and precision assemblies.
Molds & Dies
Hard DLC and CrN coatings that reduce adhesion and extend mold life in injection molding and stamping.
Firearms
Black DLC, TiN, and decorative PVD coatings for pistols, rifles, and firearm components at higher volume.
Precision Components
Functional thin-film coatings for bearings, shafts, and precision-engineered parts.
Blades & Cutlery
DLC and nitride coatings for edge retention, corrosion resistance, and premium aesthetics.
KDF-1500i™ System Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| System Capacity | |
| Number of Racks | 10 |
| Max Part Length | 100 cm (39 in.) |
| Coating Technologies | |
| Standard Deposition | Low-temperature cathodic arc vapor deposition (LTAVD®) |
| Optional Deposition | Magnetron sputtering — up to 3 PVD sources |
| Coating Processes | |
| Processes |
|
| Available Coatings | |
| Functional / Wear Coatings | TiN, CrN, ZrN, TiCN, and DLC (diamond-like carbon) |
| Decorative Color PVD | Gold, black, chrome, bronze, rose gold, blue, champagne, gunmetal, and custom colors |
| Base Materials | Pure, alloyed, or reacted zirconium, titanium, chromium, and carbon |
| Substrate Compatibility | |
| Materials | Steel, stainless steel, brass, zinc, aluminum, and prepared plastic substrates |
| Support | |
| Remote Support | Factory remote diagnostics available |
A Closer Look
KDF-1500i™ Common Questions
Find the Right System for Your Operation
KDF Technologies offers a complete family of PVD and DLC coating systems — from compact entry-level coaters to the highest-capacity industrial platforms. Each system is backed by KDF's engineering and service team.
600i Series
In-Line · Sputter-DownEntry-level in-line batch sputtering platform. Full KDF process heritage in a compact footprint.
Learn More →744i Series
In-Line · Sputter-DownThe bridge from R&D to production. Qualifies your process today and scales tomorrow.
Learn More →844i Series
In-Line · Sputter-DownBalanced capacity and footprint for mid-volume production with flexible cathode configurations.
Learn More →900i Series
In-Line · Sputter-DownHigh-throughput in-line platform proven across medical, IPD, and semiconductor production.
Learn More →974i Series
In-Line · FlagshipFlagship horizontal sputter-down. 20"×20" pallet, 4× throughput of 900i for 200mm wafer metallurgy.
Learn More →KDF-1000i™
PVD · Entry / MidCompact PVD and DLC — the right first step for operations bringing in-house coating capability online.
Learn More →KDF-1500i™
PVD · Mid Capacity10 racks, optional magnetron sputtering, PVD + DLC. More capacity, more capability than the 1000i.
Current PageKDF-3000i™
PVD · Highest Capacity16 racks, 12.44 m² coating area, parts to 122 cm. The largest PVD and DLC system in the KDF-i Series.
Learn More →KDF-MAX1500™
PVD · Most Flexible4 technologies in one chamber — cathodic arc, magnetron sputtering, PECVD/DLC, and plasma nitriding.
Learn More →KDF-Cadence®
RAAMS MagnetronCompact remote anode-assisted magnetron sputtering with PECVD/DLC for high-performance functional coatings.
Learn More →Let's Talk About Your Coating Requirements
Talk to a KDF Technologies specialist about whether the KDF-1500i™ is the right fit — and whether the optional magnetron sputtering upgrade makes sense for your application.
