Surface Engineering

Surface engineering spans a wide range of processes. At one end of the scale, ion
implantation, nitriding and aluminising affect the chemistry and properties of only a thin
surface layer of the substrate, by modifying the existing surface to a depth of 0.001–
1.0mm. At the other end of the scale are weld hardfacings and other cladding
processes. Typically 1–20mm thick, these are usually used for wear or corrosion
resistance and repairing damaged parts.

Between these two extremes are deposition processes such as physical vapour
deposition (PVD), chemical vapour deposition (CVD), anodising, laser
processing, thermal spraying, cold spraying, and liquid deposition methods.

Coatings
Coating application and performance characteristics are heavily dependent on
composition and processing parameters. Coatings ranging from purely ceramic to
purely organic in character have very different properties, but can provide critical
benefits to the component.

Selection of the most appropriate coating type and deposition method requires an
understanding of the operational requirements, together with the candidate application
methods and supply chain considerations. Testing and validation of the surface is
essential to ensure that the necessary fitness-for-purpose characteristics have been
achieved, and comparison between candidate systems against established or
developing standards has been undertaken.