To most, the function of thermal barrier coatings is essentially a foreign concept. However, if you are among those who understand the basics of what these coatings do, you should also take time to learn how thermal barrier coatings manage to provide their long list of benefits.
Ultimately, these coatings depend on a few crucial layers that allow them to operate in many different settings. Read on to learn what those essential layers are and what role they play in thermal barrier coating performance.
Metallic Bond Layer
The first layer of a thermal barrier coating you should know about is the metallic bond layer. This layer does not necessarily provide the performance capabilities for which thermal barrier coatings have become popular, but it is vital nonetheless.
The function of the metallic bond coat is to adhere the coating to whatever surface it protects. This layer creates an incredibly strong attachment that allows the thermal barrier coating to last for years, if not decades, before requiring a re-application.
Along with being exceptionally strong, the metallic bond coat must also be versatile. This versatility is what allows thermal barrier coatings to adhere successfully to a surprisingly wide range of material types.
Ceramic Topcoat Layer
Without the metallic bond layer, thermal barrier coatings would be useless. However, an additional layer is necessary for a thermal barrier coating to protect and preserve the materials it adheres to.
This second layer is known as the ceramic topcoat layer. As the name suggests, this layer consists of a high-tech ceramic material. This material is responsible for providing the coating’s main benefits.
Thanks to the ceramic topcoat, thermal barrier coatings can reduce corrosion, thermal energy transfer, and condensation. These results and others allow materials to perform better and have significantly longer lifespans than they would without a protective coating.
Additional Layers
The two layers we previously mentioned are the primary components of most thermal barrier coatings. However, the exact designs of these coatings will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
In some cases, thermal barrier coating products may include additional layers between the metallic bond layer and the ceramic topcoat layer. These additional layers may add more performance capabilities to the thermal barrier coating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thermal Barrier Coatings
You now know the main anatomy and physiology of a thermal barrier coating. However, if you’re like most people, you likely have plenty more questions about this incredible technology. To help enhance your knowledge, we provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below.
Why Are Thermal Barrier Coatings Beneficial?
Thermal barrier coatings are beneficial for materials in multiple ways. The list below showcases just a few of the top advantages that these coatings provide:
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- Reduced thermal energy transfer: Thermal barrier coatings get their name from the fact that their main role is to mitigate the effect of stark temperature changes. Reducing thermal energy transfer allows the coatings to protect machine components that must operate in extreme temperature settings, drastically improve insulation for buildings, and much more.
- Reduced corrosion: Exposure to moisture and air often causes metals to corrode. Corrosion can weaken metals and make them completely useless in some cases. Thermal barrier coatings are excellent at preventing corrosion, allowing metals to remain intact for much longer periods.
- Reduced condensation: Discouraging condensation is another way thermal barrier coatings protect materials and increase their lifespans. Less condensation results in less corrosion and makes it less likely that mold and mildew will accumulate.
- Greater energy efficiency: Whether you apply a thermal barrier coating to a building or an HVAC system, you can expect energy efficiency to improve. This increased efficiency will lead to lower overall energy costs for you as well.
What Materials Benefit From Thermal Barrier Coating Application?
One of the best aspects of thermal barrier coatings is that you can apply them to many different materials. Below is a list of just a few of the material types that thermal barrier coatings can protect:
- Metal
- Glass
- Concrete
- Asphalt
- Brick
- Masonry
- Plastic
What Industries Use Thermal Barrier Coatings?
Since thermal barrier coatings provide significant benefits to many different materials, they are useful in many different industries. Some of the industries that can benefit most from using these coatings are listed below:
- Residential and commercial building construction
- Manufacturing
- Storage
- Shipping
- Transportation
- Aerospace engineering
- Marine applications
How Do You Apply a Thermal Barrier Coating?
The best way to apply a thermal barrier coating is by using a sprayer. A sprayer will allow for even application over larger surfaces. Before applying, it’s beneficial to ensure the air temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and that the humidity is not excessively high to ensure a smooth application and proper adhesion.
Are Thermal Barrier Coatings Safe?
The best thermal barrier coatings on the market today have gone through extensive review and certification. These certifications ensure that these coatings are not only safe for the natural world but also safe for indoor use. As such, the top thermal barrier coatings are entirely safe for humans and the environment.
Learn More About Thermal Barrier Coatings from ThermaCote
Admittedly, there’s much more to learn about thermal barrier coatings, how they work, and the benefits they provide. Whether you want to learn more or you want to purchase a top-of-the-line thermal barrier coating, contact ThermaCote today.