Metal spray equipment can provide a decorative coating to cars and other metal surfaces but it is mostly used to apply functional coatings to protect metals from corrosion. More and more, civil engineers are factoring in the cost of spray coatings to add longevity to structures like bridges which would corrode more quickly without them.
The thermal spray process uses a gun to melt and then propel coating materials at high velocity on to potentially corrosive metal or other surfaces or structures that need protection. The most versatile metal spray equipment is a thermal plasma process where the powder that ultimately provides the coating is carried by a gas into a plasma flame where the particles are melted.
Consider the following to help make your decision about which type of sprayer your business needs:
1. Continuing education about plasma spraying equipment advances and technologies
2. Plasma spraying equipment applications and advantages
3. Refurbished or used plasma spray equipment as a money-saving option
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find solid thermal spray equipment info with professional organizations, search tools
You can find thermal spray equipment easily online, but you may find the best products through professional trade organizations first if your business relies heavily on spray equipment. Websites that offer you the ability to check profiles and services of thermal spray equipment companies can also be a good place to start.
I recommend: The
International Thermal Spray Association has offered a select group of thermal spray equipment suppliers since 1948.
ThomasNet lets you view company profiles and compare 25 thermal spray equipment distributors.
Look for the most versatility with plasma coating equipment
Plasma coating equipment is more expensive but offers an even coating of material and can melt powders of a variety of metal alloys or combinations of other materials. Plasma spray equipment should be used in reduced-pressure environments or even a plasma spray chamber for the best results.
I recommend: Download a plasma spray equipment brochure through
Praxair. Find a complete line of robotic plasma coating equipment through
PlasmaTreat.
Consider used thermal spray equipment for big savings
If you're new to plasma spray systems you might want to consider purchasing used thermal spray equipment. Buying used can help you learn to use a thermal spray system at a fraction of the cost. And you may even have access to customer service on used systems if you buy from the right dealer.
I recommend: Contact
WeldPlus, in business since 1996, for used thermal spray systems.
A-Flame is an online auctioneer of used thermal spray systems.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Because of the ultraviolet light some thermal and plasma spray equipment can give off, you'll need to protect yourself and your staff with glasses or goggles with BS grade 6 green glass. And, because of dust and fumes, filtered breathing masks are also a necessity.
The official source of Thermal and Plasma Spray Equipment is
the Thermal and Plasma Spray Equipment page at Business.com
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