The problem: Gas turbines, jet engines and heat exchangers all need surface protection against rust. There are many coatings on the market today – but they are not wear-resistant enough, do not have enough hardness and/or are not providing sufficient anti-corrosion properties.
The answer: Seram Coatings claims it is the first in the world to have developed an anti-corrosion and wear-resistant coating based on silicon carbide, one of the world´s hardest compounds. Because this material has no melting point, it has not previously been possible to use it for coating.
The company expects its spray, which should be able to withstand fierce heat or high doses of radiation, will replace coatings made of chrome and tungsten carbide.
The company: Seram will test the costing with manufacturing companies including Scania, FMC, MAN diesel and turbo. The chief executive Gisle Østereng has already run two successful start-ups from NTNU.