All of our modern technologies have benefited from extra protection when being asked to operate. It is an important safety requirement for all technical parts to have a degree of coverage that stops the piece from becoming damaged, corroded or extending its lifespan. One of the primary ways we do this is via Plasma Spray. This is provided by many companies, such as Poetons, for example. What industries use the protection of a plasma spray specifically?
- The Air industry. Aeronautics is a field of industry where safety and protection are always the utmost concern. Air travel accounts for a considerable amount of human movement, and without it, the effects on the global economy would be catastrophic. Airfreight and the movement of goods is also a major consideration. Coatings are used to protect the internal housing and seals of the jet engine to prevent them from wearing.
- Engineering. Mainly for mechanical parts. Plasma Spray is used to protect the areas of the machine that are liable to be worn or exposed to higher-than-normal temperatures. This increases the tolerance of the part and reduces the chances of a breakdown.
- Nautical uses. Corrosion is a significant factor in any marine-based operation. The combination of saltwater and air can reduce important parts from rust within weeks. An example of this is seen on oil and gas rigs. The coating offers a wide degree of protection to structural and component parts.
- Medical equipment. Given the expense of medical equipment, its continued and long-life use is essential. Coatings can reduce the wear and tear that these machines have to go through. Given the enormous number of patients needing an x-ray or MRI scan, the longer the equipment works, the better.
- Household goods and appliances. The simple dining plate and bowl also benefit from plasma spray coating. This is also evident in baking trays and pots, and pans. The extremes of heat that cooking utensils have to go through are underrated, and you would look to use them consistently over a long period of time and possibly several times a week. This gives them the robustness to survive the treatment we put them through. However, it does mean they generally have to be hand washed and not put in the dishwasher!