Powder SprayingPowder spraying uses an oxygen-fuel flame to coat a component with a hard or wear resistant surface or to build up a worn component by adding a powder to the heated metal. Steels that are not suitable for hardening may require hard or wear resistant coatings to their surfaces. These coatings can often be replaced when worn away, extending the life of the component. Bearing or running surfaces can become worn or damaged, and need building up and re-machining to return them to their original condition. An adapted welding torch with a powder hopper can be used to add metal powder to the surface of the component after it has been heated sufficiently to form a bond between the two materials. Powders are available for a range of hard and wear resistant surfaces as well as iron powder for building up. Oxygen and acetylene are the preferred gases because of their high localised heat input, but propane can be used.
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