Thermal sprays have revolutionised coating applications since their first use in the 1890s. High-speed deposition technologies are now used for everything from corrosion and abrasion wear protection to resurfacing and reclaiming components. Understanding thermal coatings can help you make an informed choice when using this technology for your application.
Understanding thermal spray technology
Thermal spray technology can be broken down into several steps. First, thermal energy is used to melt the coating material. Next, the molten spray is projected onto the substrate. Finally, it’s left to cool and harden, forming a strong, long-lasting chemical bond.
Firms offering thermal spraying, such as www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/thermal-metal-sprays, use a range of different technologies, including arc, plasma, and HVOF.
Thermal sprays: common applications
Common uses for thermal sprays include the automotive and aerospace industries, protective coatings for electrical insulation and even the offshore wind sector.
Versatile, quick and cost-effective, thermal sprays offer solid solutions. Coatings can be specified to meet multiple industrial challenges, such as parts repair and corrosion resistance.
Challenges and advantages of thermal sprays
Thermal spray solutions have their challenges and aren’t suitable for every type of substrate. The need for specialist equipment and skilled operatives can make thermal sprays prohibitively expensive for some applications.
On the other hand, thermal spraying offers multiple benefits. The coating process can extend machinery lifespan, reduce downtime, and slash maintenance costs. Wear resistance is excellent, especially in applications such as gears and bearings, and corrosion resistance makes spray coatings ideal for harsh environments. Additionally, the extensive range of coating materials and application types makes it hassle-free to achieve exceptional results.
