The Types of Ceramic Coating and Their Differences
In the last decade or so, the term ‘Ceramic Coating’ has taken on several new meanings and functions, beyond what we do here at Zircotec. Today’s blog hopes to clarify the differences between these offerings.
One ‘Ceramic Coating’ product that many refer to is a ceramic spray coating, this is typically applied onto vehicle bodywork to protect it from external paint damage, as well as repelling rain to avoid any staining. This has nothing to do with heat management for exhaust components.
Another form of coating that people confuse with our solution is Powder Coating. Powder Coating is basically an alternative method of ‘paint’ that isn’t a wet-application. Again, powder coating also is not used as a exhaust ceramic coating for thermal barrier purposes, as it’s rated for applications below 100°C.
Zircotec Ceramic Coatings
So, what do our Ceramic Coatings do? Zircotec’s ceramic coating finishes are applied by plasma-spray technology, although the ceramic is also deposited in a form of powder through a plasma-flame. The ceramic particles are melted and propelled towards the substrate via plasma-flame, which can reach up to 10,000°C. The molten ceramic droplets flatten on the substrate surface, rapidly solidifying to form a layer of coating.
Our Plasma-Applied Ceramic Coatings are tested to OEM standards, whereby their durability and performance are proven to function at extremely high temperatures. Our Ceramic Coatings can be applied onto:
- Exhaust Manifold/ Headers
- Turbocharger (Turbo Housing)
- Downpipes
- Tailpipes (Exhaust Tips & Trims)
- Silencers
And more.
We have several ranges of coatings, all developed specifically for various applications. Our ceramic coating technology is suitable to be used on most metallic substrates including but not limited to iron, aluminium, titanium, steel and nickel alloys. Our plasma-applied ceramic coating can even be applied to carbon-fibre reinforced polymers (CFRPs) which is perfect for our customers with supercars with all the carbon fibre components!
Over and above their thermal protection properties, our coatings have been demonstrated to increase car performance when applied onto high-performance vehicles and our elite motorsport partners. Depending on the application, it can lower exhaust surface temperatures by up to 33%, while also retaining heat inside the exhaust, assisting the gas flow rate to further improve performance. Both our plasma-applied and polymer ceramic coatings are extremely thin and lightweight, offering market leading protection for tight areas within the engine bay where space envelope is at a minimum.
Get in touch with us to find out how you can optimise the performance of your car/bike with our different ranges of ceramic coatings!