Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Facts One Should Know About Diffusion Coatings

By Marci Nielsen


Metal components are meant to be used or operated in different environments. Some of those environments are very harsh in that they have very high temperatures, are very corrosive, or are very reactive among other conditions. Such environments are able to cause very severe effects when they come in contact with metal components, which may lead to a significant reduction in durability, aesthetic value, and functionality among others. To curb the effects of such environments, diffusion coatings were invented.

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.

Once the substrate has been cleaned properly, it is placed into a contained together with the metal used for coating. The container is then placed inside a furnace or a chamber. The furnace is turned on and the temperature set to the range of 380-425 degrees centigrade.

Diffusion of the metal occurs when temperatures rise high enough within the range specified. An alloy between the substrate and metal is formed in turn. The duration of the whole processes varies relying on the kind of metal and substrate used. However, 2-4 hours is the normal range. Continuous turning of substrates must be done for uniformed thickness to be attained.

The smoothness of the resultant coating is high while the thickness if uniform. Thicknesses can be varied to suit different functions. However, 15-80 micrometers is the normal range of thickness. The coating resembles the metal used in color. Iron, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, and silicon are some among the commonest metals in use. Various metals such as iron, steels, cobalt, and nickel can be coated.

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.

This process is highly employed in industrial settings than it is applied in residential settings. In fact, very few equipment in homes need or have components coated this way. The process has been in use for long now, and since its invention, it has been modified severally. Modification are aimed at making it perfect in terms of the methods and technologies used.

Modern furnaces incorporate several important features that make them more effective and functional. The improved functionality and efficiency allows for the attainment of thin coats that last longer and are stronger, while offering good protection at the same time. The employment of this technology seems to be higher in automobile industry.




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