lundi 14 décembre 2015

Important Information About Diffusion Coatings

By Marci Nielsen


the use and/or operation of metal components occurs in many different environments. The environments differ a lot and some of them cause significant effect on the metal. Effect may be caused by high temperatures or corrosive elements. Functionality, aesthetic value, and durability among other aspects get affected diversely by such adverse conditions. These effects led to research that led to the invention of diffusion coatings. These kinds of coatings are meant to offer protection to substrates against damage that results from environmental effects. This article will discuss the process and how protection is offered.

The process of applying a diffusion coating on a metal substrate is called diffusion coating too. This process is done inside a chamber at temperatures that are very high. Various metals such as nickel, iron, and cobalt are activated thermally during the procedure. Before the process can start, the substrate needs to be cleaned thoroughly first. Cleaning can be done through various methods, but abrasive blasting is commonly used. Cleaning is for removing dirt and other undesirable materials from the surface of substrates.

After being properly cleaned, the substrate is placed in a special container, which is placed inside a furnace in turn. The furnace is sometimes called a chamber. The furnace operates at very high temperatures, which range between 380-425 degrees.

At those temperatures, the diffusion of the metal occurs, which allows it to form an alloy with the substrate or component. This process lasts variable amounts of time depending on the metal used and the nature of the substrate. Typically, it lasts between two to four hours. During the entire time, the component is rotated slowly for a uniform coating to form.

The resultant coating is smooth and its thickness is very uniform. Depending on the function of a component, the thickness can be varied. However, the normal range of thicknesses is between 15-80 micrometers. The color of the metal used for coating forms the color of the component after coating. Chromium, iron, aluminium, and silicon are among the most commonly used metals. Coating can also be done to various metals too, including iron, steels, cobalt, and nickel.

The resultant coating provides significant resistance against oxidation, erosion, oxidation, and reaction with various substances such as water and air among others. This process has made metal components meant for critical functions more reliable, stronger, and more durable. Some of the metal components that are passed through this process include gate valves, power generation components, pump impellers, and gas turbines engine components such as cases, blades, and vanes.

The process is used mostly in industrial settings and few household equipment have components that are coated this way. The technology was invented several years ago and has been undergoing a lot of modifications aimed at perfecting it. Currently, there are better methods and technology for doing it.

Modern day furnaces are very efficient and have improved functionality because they incorporate several features. The coatings achieved today are thin yet very durable, strong, and efficient at avoiding corrosion. This technology is highly employed in the automotive industry.




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