MBI Coatings, Lancaster, S.C., announces the addition of an Impact Fusion Hi Velocity Oxygen Fuel spray system. This system features higher velocities for improved coating properties and bond strength. With Impact Fusion, the particles are practically forge-welded onto the surface and onto each other to form the coating. Higher particle velocities result in higher density coatings that are more strongly bonded to the surface.
Fuel and oxygen are fed into the rear part of the gun and are ignited in the internal combustion chamber, providing the energy source. Material spray powder from a feeder is fed into the gas stream, and the spray stream is accelerated exiting the nozzle. The spray particles are propelled in a semi-molten state at velocities several times the speed of sound, causing the material to impact the surface in a plastic state to form a functional coating.
Compressive stresses within the coating ensure very high adhesion (even at thicker coatings). Conventional or competitive HVOF coatings have higher residual stresses that are in tension. This condition can cause cracking or dis-bonding. MBI’s HVOF coatings will not dis-bond because they are in compression. This condition results in better coating integrity, enhanced corrosion properties and improved thermal fatigue properties.
MBI’s HVOF process provides carbide & metal coatings with unsurpassed quality and wear life. The HVOF gun is essentially a liquid-fueled rocket running at high pressure. It imparts extremely high velocity molten coating particles. This velocity is much higher than other application methods. Higher velocity means higher quality coatings in terms of bond, wear and corrosion.
