Exploratory study for optimization of the choice of ultrasonic equipment for the deposition of functional coatings

To meet the requirements affecting the quality of functional coatings, various technologies are currently being used, one of which is the use of ultrasonics. To form functional coatings, ultrasonics are used both at the stage of surface preparation and at the stage of coating deposition. Thus, at the stage of surface preparation, ultrasonics allow making surface preclean, ensuring the necessary surface roughness due to ultrasonic rolling, as well as preactivation of the surface before nitriding due to surface plastic deformation. In case of coating deposition, ultrasonics contribute to better nitriding and painting. However, ultrasonic equipment used in various preparation and coating deposition processes differs significantly in its characteristics. Thus, the ultrasonic generators vary in alternator capacity, specific material consumption, actual frequency, as well as design features that ensure stable operation, for example, automatic frequency control. The converters differ from each other in accomplishable amplitudes, power and actual frequency. In this regard, the aim of the work is to develop recommendations on the use of ultrasonic equipment in various technical processes for the creation of functional coatings. The paper studies ultrasonic equipment used in surface preparation and functional coating application process. The main process-dependent parameters aimed at choosing the required equipment have been characterized. Recommendations are given on the use of ultrasonic equipment for various functional coatings generation, when a converter-generator couple is found and it meets the requirements for most surface preparation and coating deposition processes.