In this blog, we will discuss how engineering coatings extend equipment life and save money.
By preserving equipment’s surface quality and integrity, there are many benefits to coating solutions that can reduce maintenance expenses and optimise operating efficiency. Read on to find out more.
Understanding Engineering Coatings
Engineering coatings are a material applied to a component that alters its surface properties. This can be for either functional or aesthetic reasons.
They are used to improve the lifespan of a component, decrease wear rate act as a thermal barrier, or restore a component’s original dimensions.
The process is highly customisable, as a range of methods and materials can be applied to surface engineering. For this reason, engineering coatings are required in several industries, such as automotive, aerospace, glass manufacturing, rail, paper & print, defence, utilities & clean energy and oil & gas.
Engineering coatings are needed and used so widely that no business can afford regular component failure, causing repeat maintenance visits and replacement.
How Do Engineering Coatings Protect Equipment?
Depending on the industry and how a component is used, it must endure harsh environments while still maintaining its physical integrity.
There are a number of reactions that can threaten the surface quality and the lifespan of materials. Depending on the original surface material and how/where it is used, the engineering coating requirements will differ.
With such a diverse range of engineering coatings, you must understand your requirements before investing in a specific solution.
To extend equipment lifespan, do you require:
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Corrosion Resistance
Anti-corrosion coatings are used to protect metal components from degradation due to moisture, salt spray, oxidisation, or exposure to environmental industrial chemicals.
Corrosion can cause significant component failure in a range of industries and can be costly. Corroded equipment will require replacement, as it may fail to operate or could be dangerous.
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Abrasion Resistance
Some equipment is highly susceptible to abrasion, as it is required to continuously rub against other harsh materials, causing friction. Coatings can be specifically tailored so materials and structures can withstand abrasion.
Abrasion-resistant coatings are used on both moving and fixed parts where wearing can cause an issue.
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Thermal Protection
If you consider the equipment used in aircraft engines or glass manufacturing, the temperatures they must endure are searing. Thermal protection is a method of controlling the impact of extreme temperatures on a component, preventing freezing or fires.
Overheating can be destructive to equipment, causing it to melt or burn. The conduction of heat may also cause an issue, as there are areas of an application that require lots of heat and others where it’s not welcome.
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Chemical Resistance
Equipment used in oil and gas industries, pharmaceuticals, marine structures or chemical processing will come into contact with harsh chemicals that cause corrosion, erosion, or other types of degradation.
By creating a barrier between a substrate and the harsh chemicals that prevent a reaction from occurring. Not only does this enhance the safety of machine operations but ensures equipment operates as intended.
How Engineering Coatings Extend Equipment Life And Save Money
Reduce Maintenance Costs
By protecting equipment from damages caused by corrosion, abrasion, extreme temperatures and chemicals, it will require less maintenance.
Needing to regularly schedule maintenance is not only expensive but can be incredibly disruptive. While some appliances can still operate if one component fails, for others, all operations must come to a complete halt. This can lead to wastage, loss of earnings, and impact on reputation.
Maintaining integrity and performance standards is vital to a successful operation. Engineering coatings protect surfaces, ensure safety during operation and prevent equipment failure.
While maintenance is a cost that will always require budgeting for any business, you can reduce this cost and control your expenses with coating solutions.
Improve Operational Efficiency
By ensuring the functionality of equipment and lowering the downtime required for maintenance, engineering coatings can improve operational efficiency.
Engineering coatings can also reduce energy consumption. By lubricating surfaces and enhancing the movement of mechanical parts, less energy is needed to power machinery. This reduces operating costs and wear of components, allowing for more sustainable operations.
With the assurance that components are working to their expected standard, more time and money can be invested into growing your business. In this case, engineering coatings not only extend equipment life and save money but also grow your business.
Some coating solutions can also make components easier to clean, even if this isn’t their primary function. Efficient cleaning can reduce labour and maintain good working conditions, allowing for consistent and reliable operations.
Alphatek’s Engineering Coatings Extend Equipment Life And Save Money
It’s undoubtable how engineering coatings extend equipment life and save money. Many of our coatings at Alphatek are propriety and have been developed to meet our client’s specific needs.
With a combined experience of 120 years in engineering coatings, we are confident our team have the expertise to deliver the most effective solution at the best value.
Whether you require metal spraying, thermal spray coatings, fluoropolymer coating, or finishing services, we’d be more than happy to apply our expertise to your project. You can get in touch with us through our website, email us at postbox@alphatek.co.uk or call 01706 821021.
