Low friction coatings are ideal when ‘grippy’ is bad! Coatings are often used to reduce friction between surfaces in order to enhance performance, durability, and efficiency. These kinds of coatings find diverse applications and are used in a wide variety of industries.
In this blog, we will explore the range of industries and applications where these coatings prove invaluable. Here, we aim to answer one of our most frequently asked questions regarding these coatings, “where can low friction coatings be used?”
When friction appears, increased heat and wear closely follow. Wear, tear and unwanted heat are arguably the most common issues when it comes to engineering and manufacturing applications. This is where low friction coatings come in! There are multiple types of coatings that can offer low friction properties, but which industries are they most often used in?
What Industries Use Low Friction Coatings?
There are multiple industries that can benefit from using this type of coatings.
Aerospace
The aerospace industry often relies on the use of low friction coatings to reduce wear and tear on components. These coatings are applied to a variety of aircraft parts in order to reduce friction, and in turn, improve overall efficiency. Low friction in the aerospace industry is crucial not only for fixing the obvious issues but also for improving fuel efficiency, extending the lifespan of aerospace components and ensuring the safety and reliability of the aircraft and its components.
Automotive
These coatings also play a crucial role in the automotive industry, improving engine and efficiency and reducing emissions. Components are commonly coated to reduce friction which results in increased engine longevity and better fuel economy.
Manufacturing
With manufacturing processes, it is really important that components are able to move smoothly and without wear. Low friction coatings are used on multiple pieces of manufacturing equipment. These coatings minimise wear, which leads to reduced maintenance costs and increased production efficiency.
Medical Devices
In the medical field, low friction coatings are used in a number of applications. These coatings on surgical instruments not only reduce the force required during surgery but can also help prevent contamination and improve the durability of medical devices.
Oil and Gas
They are invaluable in the oil and gas sector. These coatings are applied to a variety of equipment in order to reduce friction and wear in harsh and corrosive environments. This not only extends the lifespan of the equipment but also reduces downtime and maintenance costs.
Low Friction Coatings at Alphatek
Here, at Alphatek, we continue to develop our range of coatings in order to provide dry lubrication and dramatically reduce unwanted friction. We work within a variety of industries, some of which we have explored in today’s post. Our solutions are typically applied by thermal spray processes.
Our low friction coatings are used to fix and prevent a range of industrial and manufacturing challenges – from jet engine components in the aerospace industry to gas turbines in the oil and gas sector.
The coating solutions from Alphatek offer viral protection where unwanted friction is an issue.
If you want to know more about how our coatings can help with reducing wear, enhancing efficiency, and improving the overall performance of various components and products, then get in touch today!
You can reach us by calling us on 01706 821021 or emailing postbox@alphatek.co.uk.
“Having worked with Alphatek for over a decade I can say with confidence that they offer old fashioned service backed up by cutting edge Low Friction Coatings. When we need speed, accuracy, communication and quality, it’s Alphatek every time. When you are up against it Alphatek is the Company to have in your corner!”
