Can SilcoTek® coatings be applied to sealing surfaces and still deliver unparalleled inertness and corrosion resistance?
Yes! SilcoTek® coatings are proven to withstand compression and shear stress common to CF, face seal and threaded sealing systems.
To confirm our high durability coatings can take the stress, we characterized the coating performance on metal-to-metal sealing surfaces. By utilizing advanced analytical techniques like FESEM and EDS, SilcoTek R&D characterized coated surfaces before and after sealing.
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FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy) image of the coated pre-sealed surface shows the coating conforms to the sealing area. The raised surfaces of the face seal gland area can be seen. SilcoTek coatings conform to surface contours and small orifices. |
EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy) is used to map the distribution of silicon (green) throughout the seal area. Results show a consistent silicon coating bonded to the surface.
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After mating the metal-to-metal face seal per manufacturers instructions, a second FESEM image of the post sealing surface shows no scarring or scratching, only trace particulate from the silver gasket.
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A second EDS image of the surface shows the silicon surface remains intact with no major occlusions or scratches on the surface. Assuring a leak free, inert and corrosion resistant surface.
Our patented chemical vapor deposition (CVD) coating process diffuses our silicon coatings into the surface; firmly bonding a flexible and high durability coating. Adhesive strength testing confirms that our CVD bond is up to 4x stronger than common coatings.
A comparison of coated and uncoated CF vessels under heating demonstrate SilcoTek® coatings minimal leak and outgas rate compared to uncoated stainless steel surfaces even under ultra high vacuum conditions.
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