Frequently Asked Questions
Arc spraying involves feeding two wire electrodes into a spray gun. An electric arc is struck across the electrode tips within the gun to give molten droplets that are propelled by compressed gas (usually air or an inert gas such as argon) on to the substrate material. The molten droplets, or particles, can reach velocities up to 150ms-1. Arc spraying can be undertaken in air or using an inert or reactive gas shield. A key feature of arc spraying is its high spray rate. The principal factors controlling spray rate are the current rating of the system and the wire feed rate necessary to use this current. As a consequence commercially available equipment follows the general principles described above, with possible differences in power supply currents and the ability to use inert gases as the atomising or shielding gases.
See further information about Materials & Corrosion Management or please contact us.