You may have heard of the term corrosion, or more commonly, rust. These are forms of oxidation. Oxidation occurs when metals come into contact with oxygen and moisture. There are so many metals that are prone to oxidation – but don’t panic! With a lot of surfaces, oxidation can be reduced and this Alphatek blog is going to share exactly how! Oxidation doesn’t only affect the appearance of metal surfaces but it can also be responsible for compromising their structural integrity. There are various methods used in the manufacturing industry to combat oxidation – one of the most highly effective techniques being metal spraying. Here we will delve into reducing oxidation with metal spraying.
Understanding Oxidation
Before we delve into the solution, it’s important for us to get to grips with the problem. Oxidation is a process that involves a substance or surface changing when it has reacted to oxygen in the presence of moisture. The process of oxidation, on metals, results in metal oxides which we commonly know as rust. Rust can have a greatly damaging effect on a metal’s structure, which can lead to maintenance costs and not to mention safety concerns. Not only can it be damaging but it also looks unsightly too.
The Role Of Metal Spraying
Metal spray coating solutions, also known as thermal spraying or metal spraying, are an efficient method to protect metal surfaces from oxidation. This process process utilises heat in order to turn metallic (and other non-metallic materials) into a molten state, which is then sprayed onto a component’s surface. Once this has impacted the part, the sprayed particles ‘flatten’ and cool on the surface with sufficient force to adhere and therefore create a reliable bond. This forms a protective barrier that shields the metal from oxygen and moisture.
Reducing Oxidation With Metal Spraying: The Benefits
There are so many benefits of reducing oxidation with metal spraying.
- Corrosion protection: Arguably the most important advantage of metal spraying is the ability to provide long term corrosion protection.
- Versatility: Reducing oxidation with metal spraying can work with a wide range of materials including steel, aluminium and copper.
- Longevity: Metal spray coating solutions are well known for their durability and long life span.
- Minimal downtime: Metal spraying is a great option if you require a quick application and minimal downtime.
- Enhanced aesthetic: As we mentioned earlier, rust isn’t nice to look at! Metal spraying can improve the aesthetics of a surface, giving it a more polished and uniform look.
Applications Of Metal Spraying To Reduce Oxidation
Metal spraying is used to reduce wear and oxidation in the most demanding environments. Thanks to all the benefits, it is no wonder that so many industries turn to metal spray coating solutions. Here are some of, not all, the industries that rely on metal spraying to reduce oxidation of their surfaces:
- Chemical
- Green Energy
- Automotive
- Oil & Gas
- Aerospace
- Pulp & Paper.
Reducing Oxidation With Metal Spraying At Alphatek
There are so many reasons why you should choose us for your metal spray coating solutions. Our coating excellence for the past 20 years is a clear indicator of the unparalleled experience you will get with Alphatek, not to mention the approvals we have gained from leading companies in the rail, aerospace and green energy industries (to name a few.)
Our in house R&D and Met Lab facilities mean for bespoke applications and solutions, brought to you by our friendly, expert team!
If you want to know more about how we at Alphatek can help with reducing oxidation with metal spraying, feel free to get in touch with a member of our team!
You can reach us by calling 01706 821021 or emailing postbox@alphatek.co.uk.
