The Influence of Plasma Spraying Parameters on Microstructure and Porosity of Bronze-Polyester Coatings for Plain Bearings Applications

Abstract

The plasma sprayed bronze coatings are widely used for repairing of plain bearing used in different applications. This type of coating was not deeply analyzed in state-of-art publications. In presented article we fill this gap in the case of plasma spraying process. The influence of power current (300/500/700A) and hydrogen flow (0/4/8 NLPM) on microstructure and thickness of aluminium bronze-polyester coating was investigated. The Thermico A60 plasma torch was used for thermal spray process of coating on flat carbon steel samples (grade S355). The Metco 604NS was sprayed with 20g/min powder feed rate. The obtained results showed the presence of local large pores formed by burning of polyester in plasma plume. This gap makes role of oil pockets in bearings. The obtained coatings were characterized by large deviation in thickness in range 200-350 micrometers. It might be concluded that in requires additional milling process after deposition.