Studies of physical properties of hot sprayed aluminium metal coatings to steel substrates

Abstract

Sprayed metal coatings are an alternative means of effectively protecting steel structures and equipment exposed to severe environments where other coatings, such as paint, are unsuitable or provide only temporary protection. Selecting the most suitable material for a given application is a very important step in achieving success. For resistance to corrosive environments, zinc and aluminium are the most successful and widely used coatings, both being anodic to iron and steel. The performance of sprayed metal coatings is a function of the environment, coating thickness, adhesion, density and the type of sealer used. The mechanism of adhesion is mainly mechanical, the bond strength being dependent on the application process chosen and standard of surface preparation. This paper describes the results of research work associated with hot sprayed aluminium applied by combustion flame and electric arc processes using compressed air and argon carrier gases. Studies included ductility and adhesion tests, scanning electron microscopy of surfaces and cross sections, and Auger surface analyses.

Citation

Wiktorek, S. and Bradley, E.G. (1986), "Studies of physical properties of hot sprayed aluminium metal coatings to steel substrates", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 33 No. 9, pp. 4-9. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb020475