Coastal Hydraulics’ resident HVOF expert, Curtis Dickens, frequently speaks on HVOF Coating – High Velocity Oxygen Fuel – and why it is superior to hard chrome coatings. Some highlights of typical questions answered during one of our HVOF presentations are below. Contact Curtis at curtis.dickens@coastalhydraulics.net for more information or to request a presentation for your company. Learn more about HVOF by clicking here.
What is HVOF Thermal Spraying?
HVOF stands for High Velocity Oxygen Fuel. An HVOF thermal spraying system uses the combustion of gases to fuel the flame for spraying – Coastal Hydraulics uses ethanol as it generates no hazardous waste or byproduct and is environmentally friendly.
Why was HVOF technology created?
The cutting edge and environmentally friendly HVOF technology provides a safe working environment for associates repairing and coating components. HVOF also provides a long-term, robust repair solution for hydraulic, pneumatic and fluid power components.
Why replace hard chrome plating?
The hard chrome plating process produces large amounts of toxic waste, including hexavalent chrome which is a known carcinogen. The EPA and OSHA have mandated more stringent stack emission levels as well as lowering of permissible exposure limits for workers. The use of hard chrome plating has increased costs and risks for businesses.
What are some other benefits of HVOF coatings?
In addition to environmental and safety benefits, HVOF coatings provide many benefits to customers. Some of these include: high density with low porosity; improved corrosion barrier; higher hardness ratings (1400 on Vickers scale whereas chrome is 930); improved wear resistance (HVOF coatings last 3 times longer than chrome, seals last approximately 200% longer); high bond strength; thick coatings; smoother than other sprayed surfaces
Give some examples of industries that use HVOF and the parts and components that can be HVOF sprayed.
Many industries can benefit from HVOF coatings. In particular, we have seen dramatic results in the marine industry (cargo handling, ship building and repair), the power industry (2 re-seals and a polish over the course of 2 years with HVOF verses 4 re-seals and 4 re-chromes on the same chrome plated part), and heavy equipment such as cranes and construction equipment. Fluid power, hydraulic and pneumatic repairs in cylinders, corner groups, strut rods, linkage pins, and rotating shafts have benefitted greatly from HVOF coatings in our experience.
How can I learn more about HVOF coatings for my applications?
Call me, Curtis Dickens, at 843-572-5714. Email me at curtis.dickens@coastalhydraulics.net, or visit our website at www.coastalhydraulics.net
