Those who have limited knowledge of what thermal barrier coatings are and what they do may wonder whether these coatings work in high-temperature applications. If you are among those people, you have come to the right place. In the sections below, we’ll discuss the details of thermal barrier coating used in high-temperature environments and ensure you have a clear knowledge of what makes these coatings so effective. 

Why Thermal Barrier Coatings Are Ideal for High-Temperature Applications

In many ways, a thermal barrier coating is the ideal protective layer to use in high-temperature environments. In fact, excellent performance in these environments is one of the top reasons why thermal barrier coatings are popular in the first place. 

One of the main functions of a thermal barrier coating is to mitigate thermal energy transfer. In other words, thermal barrier coatings protect materials and machine components from extreme temperature shifts. This protection allows machine parts and materials to operate effectively even when the surrounding temperatures are extremely high. 

For example, a standard gas turbine facilitates combustion, leading to high-temperature settings within the turbine. Without the protection of a thermal barrier coating, that high temperature can damage important pieces of the turbine, shortening their lifespan and, at times, rendering them completely ineffective. 

However, gas turbines are just one of many examples of how thermal barrier coatings can provide protection from high heat. In essence, using a thermal barrier coating is a wise decision in any industry that involves thermal stress in any form. 

Can Thermal Barrier Coatings Work in Low-Temperature Settings?

We’ve just noted that operating in high-temperature settings is a primary function of thermal barrier coatings. However, you might also wonder if thermal barrier coatings work well for low-temperature settings as well. 

Earlier, we noted that the leading function of these coatings is to mitigate thermal energy transfer. As such, the effectiveness of thermal barrier coatings is not exclusive to high heat settings. Instead, they are beneficial for use in nearly any setting with extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold. 

For instance, thermal barrier coatings are fantastic for use in the cold storage industry. Cold storage facilities must remain dramatically colder than the surrounding air outside. In these settings, a thermal barrier coating will help maintain the ideal temperature and preserve stored items regardless of how warm the outside air becomes. 

How Do Thermal Barrier Coatings Really Work?

Now that you know thermal barrier coatings work well in both hot and cold environments, let’s learn more about how they deliver those incredible performance capabilities. While there is a lot of variation in the specific designs of thermal barrier coatings, most coatings share a few similarities. 

Thermal barrier coatings have two primary layers. The first layer is the metallic bond coat, which provides the adhesive properties necessary for thermal barrier coatings to stick to the surfaces they protect. The second layer is the ceramic topcoat, which allows the coating to reduce thermal heat transfer. 

Other Important Thermal Barrier Coating Advantages

Mitigating the effects of extreme temperatures is not the only benefit that thermal barrier coatings provide. For example, the list below shows a few of the other top advantages that you can expect from one of these products:

• Corrosion control: Corrosion is one of the leading causes of degradation in metals. When metals are exposed to moisture, the odds of corrosion increase, as does the need for repairs and replacements. Thermal barrier coatings reduce corrosion significantly, allowing metals to remain intact and perform at their best for longer periods. 
• Reduced condensation: Although condensation does not appear to be a considerable problem to many, it has the potential to cause many complications, including material degradation, mold growth, and more. Fortunately, thermal barrier coatings make it far more difficult for condensation to form on material surfaces, again leading to greater longevity. 
• Energy efficiency: In many cases, the use of a thermal barrier coating leads to greater overall energy efficiency. This is especially true if you choose to coat the exterior of a building, HVAC units, or ductwork. As such, investing in a thermal barrier coating is a wise decision as it typically leads to lower energy costs. 
• Broad applicability: One of the best aspects of thermal barrier coatings is that they are useful for many materials and in many different settings. Industries like manufacturing, engineering, transportation, and many others can all benefit from thermal barrier coating use. Additionally, thermal barrier coatings can work well with many material types, including but not limited to metal, glass, concrete, wood, and asphalt. 

Need a Thermal Barrier Coating for a High-Temperature Application? Reach Out to ThermaCote

If you work in an industry that involves high temperatures, then using a thermal barrier coating can provide you with benefits immediately. However, as is true of any product, you should only purchase your thermal barrier coating from a trusted company with a history of producing top-of-the-line products. 

At ThermaCote, we offer the ideal thermal barrier coatings products for nearly any industry. If you’re curious about what makes our coatings the best, visit our website or contact us today!