Atmospheric plasma spray (APS) — otherwise known as plasma spraying — involves spraying a coating by creating a plasma, which results in extremely high temperatures (+/- 15000 °C).

Basic principle

Atmospheric plasma spray (APS)

Atmospheric plasma spray (APS) — or plasma spraying — is a technology in which a strong arc between a positive anode and negative cathode ensures the process gas can be isolated as a plasma, the fourth fundamental state of matter alongside solid, liquid and gas. By injecting a material in powder form into this plasma flow, it melts while being projected onto a workpiece.

Properties

Extremely high temperatures mean this technology is suitable for materials with a high melting point
Wide range of sprayable powders
Excellent adhesion
Homogeneous layer
Fine microstructure
Little or no porosity
Strong UV light due to process

Benefits

Improved performance
Less downtime
Longer lifespan
Antistatic properties
As good as no limit on how often parts can be re-engineered
Environmental protection (heat, acidity, working environment)
Improved seal

Available coatings

Ceramic:
- Aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃)
- Aluminium titanium oxide (Al₂O₃TiO₂)
- Chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃)
- Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂)
Metals
Carbides
Cermets

Applications

Machine parts, with a view to:

Corrosion resistance
Extremely high wear resistance
Electrical insulation
Electrical conductivity
Chemical resistance
Thermal insulation (TBC — thermal barrier coating)
Non-stick properties
Improved seal on seal faces

Antistatic rollers for the textile industry (godet rollers, sizing rollers, pulling rollers) / Burner nozzles / Gas turbines / Hydraulic rods (Piston rods) / Bushings / Furnace rollers