Thermal spray coating is the easiest method of applying corrosion protection and wear resistance to materials that will be used in challenging environments. The five types of thermal spray coatings are:
1. High-Velocity Oxygen Fuel
HVOF uses a process whereby a liquid or gas is mixed with oxygen in a combustion chamber, creating a chemical reaction in which exhaust gases are applied at supersonic speeds.
2. Plasma Spraying
Plasma spraying involves injecting powder into a high-temperature plasma jet and then spraying the molten particles onto the substrate. Once they cool, they solidify and form a protective coating.
3. Flame Spray
Flame spraying uses a combustion process to melt a coating material and propel it at low velocity onto the material needing treatment.
4. Fluoropolymer Coating
This process blends a high-performance resin with fluoropolymer lubricants to deliver a protective topcoat with exceptional UV protection and gloss retention.
5. Electric-Arc Spray
An electric arc is used to melt wires, which are then atomised using compressed air to apply the molten coating using a spray stream.
Choosing an Appropriate Thermal Spray Coating Method
If you are unsure which thermal spray coating method is best for you, an expert such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/thermal-metal-sprays/ can advise and in many cases, perform the thermal spray coating for you, reducing your risk and increasing the chances of a successful outcome.
Because they can independently assess the substrate material and the environmental conditions to which it will be exposed once treated, they can determine an appropriate solution on a case-by-case basis.
