Industries around the world are constantly seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact and future-proof our planet. In order to do this, industries must consider the environmental impact of the products, materials and tools they use.

Metal spray coatings are widely used across a wide range of prominent industries, including automotive, aerospace, power generation, gas, oil and chemical processing. But how environmentally friendly are metal spray coatings? In this blog, we take a look at the environmental impact of metal spray coatings.

The Importance Of Metal Spray Coatings

Metal spraying is a surface engineering technique that offers a flexible and dependable way to protect, enhance and repurpose various types of metal. The characteristics of the metal spray coating will depend on the need of the metal that is being treated. For example, metal spray coatings are used for:

  • nonstick release
  • traction
  • frictional wear
  • corrosion
  • abrasion
  • dielectric-insulation
  • high-temperature resistance and/or conduction.

Most metal spray coatings are specifically designed and engineered for a specific purpose, metal or industry. The process involves manufacturing a molten or powdered metal into a durable, adherent coating that is sprayed directly onto a metal’s surface.

Are Metal Spray Coatings Environmentally Friendly?

Yes! There are several ways in which metal spray coatings positively contribute to the environment. For example, metal spray coatings can be used to successfully repair, refurbish and remanufacture damaged or worn metal parts.. This breathes life back into the metal component and prevents it from being disregarded and added to the waste pile.

Similarly, mental spray coatings contribute to a sustainable future by improving the efficiency and performance of metal components. For example, engines used in the aerospace industry feature metal coatings that increase efficiency by up to 3% and turbochargers used in the automotive industry feature metal coatings that significantly reduce gas loss.

In addition, metal spray coating solutions have been used time and time again to significantly expand the lifespan of a component or metal product, particularly if the component is at increased risk of corrosion or abrasion.

The process of spraying metal coatings can also be considered energy efficient when compared to high-temperature methods such as galvanisation. Plus, some metal spray coatings have lower VOC emissions (volatile organic compounds) when compared to their liquid paint coating counterparts.

metal spray coatings in the aerospace industry

Are There Areas For Improvement?

Although the metal spray coatings industry is environmentally conscious, like most industries, there is still room for improvement. Metal and thermal spray coatings are considerably more environmentally friendly than other metal coating alternatives, but manufacturers should still carefully consider materials, ensure proper application and reduce waste where possible. Responsible waste management practices should also be put into place.

Alphatek And The Environment

Alphatek is a leading provider of world-class metal spray coatings. As dedicated thermal coating specialists, we have more than 20 years worth of experience in developing innovative metal spray coatings to suit specific client requirements.

Our diverse collection of metal spray coatings is widely used by a vast range of key industries including automotive, rail and transport, print and paper, and glass manufacturing. From Aston Martin to Network Rail, our clients know they can count on Alphatek for exceptional thermal spray coatings solutions.

As a leader in our field, we are always working to better ourselves, and this includes our environmental impact. Currently, Alphatek is working towards the ISO14001 Environmental standard, which is the global Environmental Management Standard that encourages companies to strive towards complying with stringent environmental laws and regulations.

Find Out More

Want to know more about the thermal spray coating solutions on offer at Alphatek? Check them out here:

Alternatively, if you have a question about our metal spray coatings, do not hesitate to get in touch with our team. You can call us on 01706 821021 email us at postbox@alphatek.co.uk or fill out our contact form.