Surface treatment of plasma spray is a coating that improves the surfaces of metal parts and can be applied locally in a given area.
Processes Details
The Plasma spray process involves the injection of gases through a special nozzle into an electric arc source. The extreme heat generated by the electric arc converts the gases into a highly energetic plasma. This plasma is directed toward the surface of the part to be treated, and upon impact, melts and accelerates metal or ceramic particles previously fed into the system. These particles in the molten state are projected on the surface of the part at high speed, forming an adhered layer that improves its properties.
The coatings applied can be both abradable (soft) and hard, using materials such as chromium oxide, alumina or molybdenum among others. These coatings provide specific properties such as resistance to wear, abrasion, erosion, high temperatures and even electrical insulating properties.
Sometimes the surface is kept raw after plasma spray, while in other cases an additional Grinding operation is performed to achieve a more precise coating finish.
Parts and Components
This treatment is applied to various industrial parts and components that seek to improve their mechanical and thermal properties. Examples of treated parts include gas turbines used in aviation engines and power plants, key compressor blades in turbines and compressors, aircraft components exposed to extreme conditions, industrial machinery parts subject to abrasion and impact, and automotive components, such as cylinders, valves and pistons, which benefit from increased efficiency and durability thanks to Plasma Spray treatment.
In the case of aircraft engine parts, depending on the coatings applied, a subsequent grinding process may be required to achieve the final coating finish.
Fields of Application
Plasma spray coating is commonly applied in various sectors, such as aerospace (aircraft and engine manufacturing and maintenance), energy (gas plants and turbines), manufacturing (industrial machinery), automotive (engine components) and petrochemical (chemical process equipment).
It is essential to consult the corresponding aeronautical certifications to ensure the quality and compliance with the standards required in the aerospace industry.