Performance coatings fall into four general categories:
It should be noted that some coatings will fall into more than one category. You might have, as an example, a Corrosion Inhibitor that is also a Thermal Dispersant. The following information will provide a general overview on coatings falling into these categories. (click on a category above to go directly to it)
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Dry film lubricants, also known as solid film lubricants, provide a lubricating film that reduces friction, inhibits galling and seizing and in some instances can aid in dispersing heat. The appearance is generally a charcoal gray and takes on a sheen upon burnishing. They are slippery and provide an extremely low coefficient of friction.The two most important components are the binders and lubricating ingredients. Without a good binder the coating will not stay in place and will simply cold flow or buff off in operation. Similar coatings using the same pigments but different binding systems can show a wide variation in load carrying abilities, ranging from 100,000 psi to over 350,000 psi . The pigments determine the actual lubricating potential. PTFE, as an example, is listed as having the lowest coefficient of friction (COE). However, under high speed and load, the COE of PTFE degrades while that of MOS2 (Moly) improves, until it is significantly better than PTFE. Selecting the proper ingredients can make or break a coating.
One of the obvious reasons for using a lubricating coating is to reduce friction, which improves wear, extends part life and frees up H.P. normally lost to friction. A second major benefit is a reduction in part temperature. This is especially important to such parts as valve springs. Here the pigment choice is critical as certain ingredients can trap heat in a part. Not all coatings are created equal. . It is recommended by TECH LINE that coatings using PTFE be avoided in these cases. Contact our TECH DEPT before choosing a dry film lubricant.
Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBC’s) are designed to reduce the movement of heat. In some instances, such as exhaust systems, you want to keep the heat within the part. In combustion chambers you want to use the heat generated by combustion to push down on the piston rather than bleed off into surrounding surfaces. Due to continued testing we are learning that simple thermal barrier action is not the only characteristic that is important. In fact certain TBC’s will move an engine into detonation. TBC coatings can be made from a variety of materials. Ceramics get the most attention, though there are other materials that are superior in specific applications. The proper choice is critical to the overall function of the coating.
Being able to move and control heat is of tremendous importance. Excessive temperature can lead to metal fatigue, boiling fluids, damaging metal expansion, reduce electrical efficiency and a host of other problems. Traditionally dealing with heat has been handled either by expanding the radiating surface, constructing parts from materials that are more heat conductive and using the color black. With advances in thermal management methods additional ways of enhancing heat transfer now exist. TECH LINE has developed a Thermal Management System ™ . Individual products such as TLTD can be utilized by themselves or in conjunction with other coatings to manage the flow of heat. TLTD is capable of transferring heat faster than the bare metal surface. While TLTD does make use of the color black, TLTD is more than a simple "black body" heat emitting coating. TLTD includes ingredients that also contribute to increased heat flow. Combining these properties with increased corrosion protection and the thin film application technique, maximizes thermal transfer capabilities. Effective on Brakes, Intake Manifolds, Cylinder Heads, Oil Pans, Radiators, Intercoolers and … more.Certain TECH LINE Dry Film Lubricants are capable of reducing part temperature not only through the reduction of friction but also through increased thermal flow. The active ingredients accelerate the movement of heat. This is especially beneficial on valve springs where excess heat can lead to accelerated fatigue and in some instance breakage.
Corrosion and Chemical Inhibiting Coatings : The loss of effectiveness, reduction in part life and deteriorating appearance due to corrosion/chemical damage is of real concern. Loosing a well matched/tuned header to rust is not only expensive, but frustrating. A good aluminum manifold can become junk if the water inlet area corrodes excessively. Keeping components clean and attractive is of concern when promoting your vehicle or the parts you manufacture to potential sponsors or customers. TECH LINE offers a variety of protective coatings that also enhance the appearance of a part. Many of these coatings will have additional benefits such as Thermal Barrier or Thermal Dispersants capabilities.
TECH LINE COATINGS, INC., manufacturers a variety of coatings. The above categories are only general and give the most common characteristics desired. Additional coatings can either , shed or retain oil, provide flame retardancy, deter dissimilar metal reaction, harden a part or provide a conforming film to tighten clearances, build up surfaces to restore clearance, and more.
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