Plasma spray coating: benefits, applications, and materials
Plasma spray coating refers to the process of using a high-temperature plasma jet to coat the surface of a substrate. In order to generate the plasma jet, a gas such as argon or hydrogen is passed through an electrical arc which heats the gas up to 14,000k this then passes through a nozzle where the powder coating is introduced. This ultra-hot flame is then used to coat the surface. The sprayed coating will cool rapidly as it hits the substrate, providing an even and well-adhered coating.
The benefits of plasma spraying.
One of the main benefits of the plasma spray method is the wide range of coating materials that can be applied to a surface. Used in a regulated and controlled environment, it is possible to use tungsten, ceramics, metallics, and carbides to provide a number of benefits ranging from heat insulation to protection from chemical degradation and corrosion, together with materials that are able to control electrical conductivity.
Blends have also been developed which can give unique surface properties, improving durability, anti-fretting, or providing a thermal barrier. This benefits a wide range of industries, such as culinary, medical, petrochemical, marine, and more. A detailed analysis can be found here: For a fuller description of the range of coatings available, see specialist sites such as: www.poeton.co.uk/standard-treatments/plasma-coatings/.
Applications of plasma spraying.
A surprising number of products, from heavy industry to rather more consumer-based, rely on plasma spray coating. Think of anything from non-stick cookware, pet products, hair dryers, curling tongs, and dental implants all the way through to diesel piston engine rings as well as providing the thermal barrier coatings in turbine combustion chambers and aircraft engines. It is extensively used in repair work. Items such as drive shafts can be coated to extend their usage and repair wear. Plasma spray coating is also much in demand in the booming environmental sector, being used in such products as solar panels and wind turbines. No doubt the range of products benefiting from it will continue to expand in the future as this technology matures.
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