Thermal Spray Most Common Uses
For those with even the most marginal knowledge of thermal spray and protective coatings, the process probably appears as a solution to corrosive wear in industrial situations. And whereas, this is very true, that doesn’t even break the surface where the many uses of thermal spray coatings are concerned. The following is an exploration of some of the most common uses of thermal spray coatings throughout many of today’s industries and applications.
What Is Thermal Spraying and How Does It Work?
When an industry wants to improve, restore, or enhance a solid material’s surface, they use a popular technology known as the thermal spray system. The coatings applied by this system help discourage erosion, heat, abrasion, corrosion, cavitation, and wear. It extends the life of components and can enhance their quality. This leads among other things, to longer machinery operation with less need for maintenance.
Upon a chosen surface, thermal spray coatings are spread. The surface must be prepared properly and completely clean for the projected particles to adhere. A full coverage coating is created as the sprayed particles spread over the chosen surface.
In a Nutshell
Just as a starting point, the following are the thermal sprayed coatings’ most common applications:
- Electric applications
- Artistic – bronze application, glass coloring
- For the reclamation of worn components
- Abradables
- Anti-corrosion/corrosion resistant coatings
- Thermal barrier coatings
- Abrasion and wear resistance coatings
Uses for Thermal Spray Coatings
Protective coatings defend components, parts, and machinery against extremes – specifically, the elements and temperatures. Frequently, airplanes use thermal sprayed coatings because they are capable of providing a wide range of functions. Humidity, rain, and other environmental conditions will have less effect on something that has been protectively coated through the thermal spray process. The automotive industry is another place where these coatings are frequently used.
A Closer Look at Coatings
Dielectric Coating – aerospace, automotive, and electronic packaging industries commonly make use of ceramic dielectric coatings. They are applied at extremely high densities and are frequently pure aluminum oxide. They can tolerate thousands of volts, which, in these particular industries, is essential due to the live electricity volumes involved.
Resurfacing – in vehicles and various industries, the resurfacing of metal parts is the chosen use for thermal spraying. Engineering performance can be improved as well as the lifespan of a particular component. When an element (such as printing rolls or bearings) is corroded or worn, it presents the perfect opportunity for the use of thermal spray coatings.
Cathodic Coating – in this process, a cathodic metal coating is applied to the base providing excellent corrosion protection. A cathartic coating would be represented in the following instance: to a steel base, a nickel alloy coating would be applied. This coating provides a protective, strong barrier and would likely be applied at a significant thickness.
No matter what application or industry is involved, A&A Coatings is at the top of the field with excellent service, expert workmanship, and the latest innovative techniques. Thermal spray coatings help protect the bottom line of countless companies throughout almost every industry known to mankind. If you would like to find out what thermal sprayed coatings can do for you, your company, and your industry, call one of our representatives today.
