Six Common Aerospace Surface Treatments

The aerospace sector needs coatings that can withstand high temperatures and friction. These components are a high corrosion risk, so protective films need to be hard and thermally resistant.

Anodising

Anodising converts a base metal surface through an electrochemical or electrolytic process. It achieves a lasting, rust-resistant layer that’s often attractive enough to act as a decorative feature. It also achieves an insulated surface.

Passivisation

If you want to avoid electrolytic processes, passivisation is an option that removes free iron from stainless steel. This forms an oxide film. There are eight kinds.

Shot Peening

Shot peening is one of the best aerospace surface treatments for resisting metal fatigue. It can be used on glass, steel, or ceramics and is achieved through a cold-working, mechanical process.

Thermal Spray Coatings

Businesses such as www.poeton.co.uk/about/industries/aerospace-defence use thermal coatings as a heat-resistant shield. However, inherent porosity is an enduring challenge that still needs to be overcome.

Electroplating

Electroplating deposits a layer of metal over another surface, but it’s never quite so simple. Every metal brings its own qualities to your base metal, and not all processes are uniform enough to handle complex geometries.

Conversion Coating

Conversion coating, also known as chemfilm coating, is achieved by exposing a surface to a chemical treatment and preparing the base metal for adhesion. It creates a rust-resistant surface while adding longevity.

The aerospace industry has extreme and exacting needs, so it’s constantly looking for new coatings and treatments. Nano-technology integration and new, lightweight materials will bring exciting advancements over the next decade.