---
title: Can Inert Coatings Be Applied To Seal Surfaces?
description: Learn how our high durability, corrosion resistant, and inert coatings stand up to the stress of face seal, CF, threaded and compression sealing.
---

[SilcoTek Coating Blog ](https://www.silcotek.com/blog)

# [Can Inert Coatings Be Applied To Seal Surfaces?](https://www.silcotek.com/blog/can-inert-coatings-be-applied-to-seal-surfaces)

 Written by [Jim Mattzela](https://www.silcotek.com/blog/author/jim-mattzela) | August 14 2015

No not that kind of seal, I'm talking about mechanical sealing systems, although this guy is cuter. Protecting fittings from [corrosion](https://www.silcotek.com/corrosion-resistant-coating-solutions) and keeping them [inert](https://www.silcotek.com/inert-sampling-solutions) is important, but questions arise concerning coating surface durability.

[SilcoTek® coatings](https://www.silcotek.com/silcod-technologies) are proven to  withstand compression and shear stress common to CF, face seal and threaded systems.  That gives customers a new option when looking for improved [corrosion resistance,](https://www.silcotek.com/corrosion-resistant-coating-solutions) [durability](https://www.silcotek.com/durability-coating-solutions), and [inertness](https://www.silcotek.com/h2s-mercury-ammonia-solutions) in sampling and process systems.

Let's see how a coated face seal stands up to the stress.

First we'll examine the coated surface before sealing.

 

|  | FESEM [(Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy)](http://www.photometrics.net/fesem.html) image of the coated pre-sealed surface shows the coating conforms to the sealing area.  The raised surfaces of the gland area can be seen.  SilcoTek® coatings conform to surface contours and small orifices. |
| --- | --- |

 

Now let's make the fitting, disassemble and examine the surface.

|  | After making the metal-to-metal fitting per manufacturers instructions, a second FESEM image of the surface shows no scarring or scratching, only trace particulate from the silver gasket. |
| --- | --- |

Now let's scan the fitting to be sure the inert, corrosion resistant silicon surface is really intact.

 

|  | EDS ([Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy-dispersive_X-ray_spectroscopy)) is used to map the distribution of silicon throughout the area.  Post sealing results show the silicon surface remains intact with no major occlusions or scratches on the surface; assuring a leak free, inert and corrosion resistant surface. |
| --- | --- |

 

Finally let's do a leak test.

For this experiment, we'll compare coated and uncoated CF vessels under heating.  As the temperature rises, leaks and surface outgassing can also increase.  SilcoTek® coatings maximize leak integrity with a very low outgas rate compared to uncoated stainless steel surfaces, even under ultra high vacuum conditions.

 

 

 

 

 

[View full post](https://www.silcotek.com/blog/can-inert-coatings-be-applied-to-seal-surfaces)

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