Thermal barrier coatings are the key to ensuring component lifespan and efficiency. In this blog, we will look at the environmental impact of engineering, and how thermal barrier coatings are a sustainable solution across a range of sectors.
What Are Thermal Barrier Coatings?
Thermal barrier coatings, or TBCs, are protective layers applied to components. The coating technology works to maintain the original surface property of a component and improve its operational performance.
In the engineering world, components are subject to harsh environments, such as extreme temperatures, high pressure or constant friction. The function of TBCs is to reduce heat transfer to the underlying material, leading to improved mechanical properties and extended component life.
Many industries under the engineering umbrella recognise the benefits of thermal barrier coatings. There is a persistent call for a more sustainable approach to engineering. TBCs are a solution for higher efficiency and reduced emissions, while not sacrificing performance.
Due to the wide and diverse use of thermal barrier coatings, there are various products to suit various demands.
Environmental Impact Of Engineering
Engineering activities can have a significant impact on the environment. As demand increases for production and industrial industries, it is important to recognise the current impact they are making, so sustainable solutions can be devised.
While not every issue may have a simple and apparent solution… engineers must operate consciously, with an awareness of their impact, so they make suitable changes in their practices.
Non-Renewable Energy Resources
Engineering and production require the use of non-renewable energy resources, such as fossil fuels and raw materials. Other resources could include land space and minerals. Extracting, possessing and transporting these resources can have immense environmental impact. Without proper care and ensuring the longevity of these resources, the impact only worsens.
Air And Water Pollution
Due to the scale of engineering activities, it can cause various types of pollution. Greenhouse gas emissions from power plants can lead to air pollution. Industrial waste, discharge and oil spillages can contaminate water bodies. All the above contribute to global warming.
Habitat Destruction
Infrastructure projects can disrupt neighbouring ecosystems due to habitat destruction and fragmentation. A loss of local biodiversity can have a heavy impact on the environment.
What Is Sustainable Engineering?
Sustainable engineering is using resources as required while controlling the possible environmental impact.
The demands of sustainable engineering require designing and operating systems in a way that consumes resources at a compatible rate with the environment’s capacity.
Of course, if you were to look up ‘sustainability’, it doesn’t only pertain to the environment. Sustainability can also relate to finances. Usually, where there is a sustainable solution in one aspect, it will have positive repercussions across the board.
How Are Thermal Barrier Coatings Sustainable?
Temperature Control
Extreme temperature conditions which lead to component damage and failure can be controlled. This requires less replacement and maintenance for components, resulting in a reduced consumption of materials.
Increased Lifespan
Thermal barrier coatings work to protect underlying surfaces. By decreasing the temperature stress on parts, they are likely to last longer and maintain performance standards. As a result, they require fewer repairs and maintenance costs are significantly reduced.
Improved Efficiency
More heat energy can be applied to components with thermal barrier coatings, as they can withstand the impact. This can improve the power of machinery. Better operating efficiency means less greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption, which ultimately saves on costs.
Did you know… engines used in the aerospace industry use coatings that increase efficiency by up to 3%? You can read more about improved efficiency here.
Versatility
Thermal barrier coatings can be used on a range of substrates, from the obvious metals to plastics, ceramics, composites and carbon fibre. The versatility of this solution means there are few limitations to its sustainable impact.
The Future Of Sustainable Engineering
Thermal barrier coatings are significantly better for the environment than other coating alternatives. However, that doesn’t mean there is no room to evolve this solution to continue to improve environmental impact.
Coating manufacturers should consider the materials they use and ensure proper application. Responsible waste management practices should also be put into place.
At present, the shift to make engineering more sustainable has been primarily focused on controlling environmental impacts in production and improving resource efficiency. The future of sustainable engineering looks to embrace this perspective. Engineers must establish a clear vision of their impact before project designing and consider strategies to minimise this accordingly.
Thermal Barrier Coatings At Alphatek
Alphatek is a leading provider of world-class thermal barrier coatings. With 20 years of experience in developing innovative solutions for our clients, we deliver sustainable coatings to suit specific client requirements.
Regarding our sustainable approach, we are currently accredited and work with ISO9001:2015. We are also working towards ISO14001 Environmental standard.
Sustainable engineering practices are at the forefront of everything we do. Whether we are innovating long-lasting, high-performance coatings, improving clients’ profitability and productivity, or reducing environmental impact… Our philosophy is in building to last.
If you would like to enquire about our thermal barrier coatings or have a question on how we could improve your business’s sustainable operations, please get in touch.
