Plasma
Plasma spray is a high-heat thermal spray system that combines aspects of both flame and arc spray, and was the first process capable of reliably applying carbide and ceramic coatings. Its high flame temperature makes it ideal for thermal barrier, wear, and corrosion-resistant coatings.
What is plasma spray?
Plasma spray is a high heat thermal spray system that combines technical aspects of both flame and arc spray. Plasma spray systems were the first systems capable of creating a high enough flame temperature to reliably apply carbide coatings. This high heat is the main benefit of plasma spray and allows for the application of ceramic coatings. Plasma spray uses an electrical arc to dissociate and ionize hydrogen and argon gases. The plasma spray gun injects powder into this spray stream to apply various types of coatings.
Advantages
- High heat allows for the application of ceramic coatings
- Wear resistant
- Corrosion resistant
- Can be used as a thermal barrier for components in high heat environments
- Offers I.D. (inner diameter) spray capabilities
- No heat distortion
Common applications
- High-temperature environments
- Parts that experience a lot of wear
- Corrosion resistance
- Dielectric coatings
Plasma Spray Solutions
Ceramic plasma spray coatings can be used as a thermal barrier for components used in high heat environments. Plasma coatings are also wear and corrosion resistant. Plasma thermal spray also offers I.D. spray capabilities.
Common Coating Solutions
- Thermal barrier coatings
- Abradable coatings
- Cermets
- Ceramic coatings
- Nickel and Cobalt based coatings
Common Coating Materials
- Chrome Oxide Ceramic
- Aluminum Oxide Ceramic
- T800
- Chrome Carbide
- Aluminum polyester abradables
Plasma Spray Coating Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Cost | Upgraded |
| Bond Mechanism | Mechanical (<10,000 psi) |
| Max Flame Temperature | 12,000-35,500° F |
| Particle Velocity | 1,500-2,600 ft/sec |
| Max Spray Rate | 18 lbs/hr |
| Coating Thickness Range | 0.003" to 0.030" |
| Special Features | Capable of ceramic coating, no heat distortion |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent |
| Corrosion Resistance | Very Good |
| Porosity | Low |
Thinking about Plasma for a part?
Send us the spec or a photo. We'll tell you whether this fits, or point you at a better material for the job.
Ask about this material