Thermal barrier coatings protect components from heat, wear, and corrosion. Eventually, those coatings need to come off. Worn or damaged coatings must be stripped before a part can be inspected, repaired, or recoated.
Removing a coating sounds simple enough. It is not. Strip too aggressively and you damage the base metal. Strip too gently and the old coating stays behind, which ruins adhesion for the new coat.
What is thermal barrier coating and why does it need to be removed?
A thermal barrier coating (TBC) is a protective layer applied to metal components that operate in high-heat environments. It shields the base metal from heat damage, oxidation, and wear.
Over time, the coating degrades. Cracks, chips, and worn spots reduce its protective value. A part cannot be properly inspected or repaired while a failing coating is still attached.
Removal clears the surface down to clean base metal. This allows technicians to check for damage underneath and prepare the part for a new coating. Proper removal creates a uniform surface profile, which is what the next coat needs to bond correctly.
What are the main methods for removing thermal barrier coating?
Kaytech Inc. provides three related services for surface preparation and coating removal:
- Abrasive blasting
- Manual grinding
- Ultrasonic and chemical cleaning
Each method removes material differently. The best choice depends on the part, the coating, and the finish required afterward. Some jobs use more than one method in sequence.
How does abrasive blasting remove coatings?
Dry grit blasting uses a highly concentrated stream of small abrasive particles projected at a surface. The high-velocity impact of those particles abrades the surface. This removes rust, mill scale, coatings, and other contaminants, and it creates a uniform surface profile for proper adhesion.
The choice of blasting media matters. Different media produce different results, and the choice often depends on subsequent metal treating requirements and specifications. The most commonly used blasting media are:
- Aluminum oxide
- Glass beads
- Steel shot or grit
- Garnet
- Silicon carbide
Various grades of coarseness are used depending on the material to be removed and the desired residual surface finish. A coarse media strips heavy coatings fast. A finer media leaves a smoother finish.
Choose abrasive blasting when you need to remove a tough coating and establish a fresh surface profile for recoating. It is the standard method for most thermal barrier coating removal.
What Kaytech brings to Thermal Barrier Coating Removal
Kaytech strives to provide the highest quality surface preparation services in the industry. The company continually seeks to improve its business processes, equipment, and employee training. New ideas and technologies that bring efficiency are welcome.
Kaytech understands the importance of communication. Direct, accurate, and timely communication enables the team to understand customer expectations.
Kaytech is committed to recruit, train, equip, and deploy the most competent employees in the Upstate of South Carolina.
Give us a try. We will work hard for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common method for removing thermal barrier coating?
Abrasive blasting is the most common method. It strips tough coatings and creates a uniform surface profile in one step, which prepares the part for a new coating.
What blasting media works best for coating removal?
It depends on the coating and the finish required. Kaytech works with our customers to understand their technical requirements prior to selecting the appropriate blasting media. Common media include aluminum oxide, glass beads, steel shot or grit, garnet, and silicon carbide. Select coarseness based on the material and desired finish.
Where is Kaytech located?
Kaytech Inc. operates in the Upstate of South Carolina and serves multiple markets including Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts and of course South Carolina and North Carolina.
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