TWI Frequently asked questions
by Suman Shrestha
The main disadvantages associated with arc spraying include:
- The process can be used to spray only electrically conductive materials that are available in a suitable wire form. It is not suitable for spraying cermets or ceramics.
- A large amount of fume and dust is produced, requiring the operator to wear suitable breathing apparatus and protective clothing.
- In general the coating quality does not match that achieved using plasma and HVOF spraying processes.
- Arc sprayed coatings generally contain more porosity and higher amounts of oxide and have lower bond strengths compared with coatings deposited by plasma and HVOF spraying.
