Performance Evaluation in a Boiler Environment of a Metallic Coating Obtained by Electric Arc Thermal Spraying Using Iron-based Alloy

Abstract

The Arc Spray Process (ASP) is a low-cost and high-productivity process for making metallic coatings. These coatings are used in heat exchanger pipes to promote good corrosion and wear resistance. This work evaluated a metallic coating of Fe-Cr-Nb-Ni-B alloy deposited by ASP to protect carbon steel pipes boiler to generate steam. Were considered the coating performance about corrosion resistance and the wear due to particles' friction. Two conditions were tested, coating with sealant based on silicone resin with aluminum and without sealant. Sealants or paint layers are commonly used to improve coatings corrosion resistance. Two samples for each condition tested remained in the boiler environment for seven and twelve months. Metallographic preparation techniques, Scanning Electron Microscopy, chemical analysis by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, and Digital Image Analysis and Processing were used. The results showed that sealant was removed from the coating by the friction of the flow of particles present in the boiler's water operation. Nevertheless, the metallic coating remained intact in its adhesion to the substrate and layer of deposited thickness. The proposed solution was considered a promising solution for protecting steel pipes of boilers.

Keywords:
Thermal spray; Metal coating; Sealant; Boiler