In this blog, we will go over 4 reasons why you should consider metal spraying for your next project.
Simply put, metal spraying will improve your component’s lifespan and ensure long-term operational efficiency. Read on to find out why metal spraying is essential for the success of your future projects.
What Is Metal Spraying?
Metal spraying, or coating, solutions are an engineering technology designed to extend the lifespan of a variety of components and applications used across a wide scope of industries.
If you think about architecture, motor vehicles, machinery, aerospace designs… They must all endure hostile environments, yet the assurance of long-term durability is vital. Constant breakage or structural failure can be catastrophic.
Metal spaying can be divided into two main categories, finishing coatings, such as anti-corrosion or decorative coatings, and engineering coating, which includes wear-resistant and thermal barrier coatings.
No matter the type or method, all applications of metal spraying involve the projection of small molten particles onto a clean, prepared component. The particles adhere to the surface and create a continuous coating. The adhering process occurs when the particles upon contact with a surface, flatten, freeze and mechanically bond. This then alters the surface properties of the component.
In any case, metal spraying requires a heat source to create molten particles, a spraying material suitable for environmental requirements, and a projection method.
Why You Should Consider Metal Spraying For Your Project
-
Superior Corrosion Protection
For marine industries, oil and gas, construction, and petrochemicals, corrosion protection can mean the difference between life and death. Wear and tear on structures or metallic frames can lead to complete failure, which could be deadly.
Therefore, corrosion protection is imperative. It isn’t merely a case of why you should consider metal spraying for your project. You must understand why it is a non-negotiable necessity.
Albeit not every instance where corrosion protection may be applied is on that scale. Anti-corrosion coatings may be used in all manner of applications, ranging from skyscrapers and bridges to park benches.
Most anti-corrosion coatings use aluminium and zinc. In any case, the material used will rely on the factors, such as the corrosive atmosphere, temperature of the environment, local authority specification, coating lifespan, adhesion requirements and availability of the coating material.
The flexible process of metal spraying means the possibilities for applications are endless. In a lot of cases, finishing applications will be applied overtop, so that the practical layer does not disrupt the overall aesthetic of a design.
2. Enhanced Durability And Wear Resistance
A property that is usually enhanced upon metal spraying application is the wear resistance of a surface. The material sprayed onto an engineering product is typically more hard-wearing than the base material.
Corrosion is one form of surface wear, where you can see a gradual loss of surface material due to exposure to a reactive environment. Abrasion may happen due to many factors including friction, vibration and impact. Both occurrences threaten the lifespan and operational effectiveness of machine components.
Metal spraying allows machinery and equipment to withstand the harsh environments they must operate in, by achieving corrosion and abrasion resistance.
3. Versatility In Applications
The versatility of metal spraying applications means they can be customised based on the needs of your project.
The name metal spraying implies that metal is the only material that can be used, however, this is not the case. Ceramics, plastics, and polymers can be used as well. Engineers in the spraying sector will be able to advise the perfect match based on your project needs.
Not only is there a vast variety of coating materials that can be used in the process, but substrate materials too. Any materials that can withstand the heat of the metal spraying process are suitable for this method of preservation.
That said, some spraying methods use significantly lower temperatures, so the range of substrate materials is expanded even wider. Plus, our industry constantly has new developments, making the possibilities of metal spraying endless.
4. Positive Environmental Impacts
Metal spraying can have many positive environmental impacts on your project. First and foremost, metal spraying can improve the lifespan and durability of renewable technologies.
Wind turbines, solar panels, biomass, or tidal energy resources are all subjected to corrosion and erosion from their environment. Metal spraying ensures the effectiveness of components and ensures that they can continue to be upheld and manufactured.
It also means that renewable technologies can continue to be installed in more challenging environments, increasing both their functionality and accessibility.
Regarding costs for your project, metal spraying promotes repairing instead of replacing components. This not only saves on expenses but means you’re accounted for less material pollution and have a sustainable manufacturing process.
Depending on the requirements of your project, metal spraying also means lighter parts can be made as strong and tough as other materials while having little impact on fuel efficiency.
Why You Should Consider Metal Spraying For Your Project With Alphatek
We hope the points above have clearly outlined why you should consider metal spraying for your project.
If you’re looking to cut back on your long-term expenses, improve your fuel efficiency, impact on environment and component lifespan, then metal spraying is for you.
At Alphatek, we have over 20 years of experience in the industry and our expertise speaks for itself. We have worked on countless projects and provided the finest economical, cost-effective coating solutions to our clients.
Take a look at our range of metal spray coatings on our website or contact us today to work with us on your next project.
