Parylene coatings are known for many things, including their unique ability to cover even the most complicated surfaces and their reliability when it comes to longevity and effectiveness. However, one of the most valuable aspects of any parylene coating is its ability to withstand temperature extremes.
Thermal Properties
The unique structure of parylene coatings grant them many useful properties, but the thermal properties are among the most efficient--simply because the ability to withstand temperature extremes is crucial in countless applications. However, while parylene is known for its thermal properties, different types of parylene have different ranges of temperature extremes; similarly, various applications, conditions, and original product purposes can alter the range of temperatures under which parylene can function reliably and efficiently. This means that, in order to receive the most benefits from these thermal properties, a high amount of research must go into choosing the proper type of parylene coating and applying it correctly.
The thermal properties of each parylene type greatly affect the performance and adhesion of the coating.
- Melting point. Each type of parylene coating has a specific melting point. Parylene C melts at 290° C, Parylene N at 420° C, and Parylene D at 380° C. This means that each type of parylene functions better under a specific set of circumstances, which must be taken into account when choosing the right parylene coating.
- Weaknesses. Although parylene coatings are known for their ability to withstand a wide range of extreme temperatures, it is possible for constant thermal stress to wear down and weaken a parylene coating. This happens relatively rarely, but it must be guarded against, especially in delicate applications.
Parylene’s uses span from circuit board coating for industrial or even military use, all the way to the thin coat protecting a plane’s outer LED lighting. Parylene has many capabilities, and its resistance to heat and cold, its dielectric properties, and the fact that it doesn’t react with the majority of chemicals makes it incredibly desirable when it comes to the protective coating. Another form of coating or reason for using coating is for thermal barriers. Thermal barrier coating plays an important role in many industries.
Uses and Applications of Thermal Barrier Coating
Thermal barrier coating is essential for many industries, and its benefits include an increase in engine power, a reduction of fuel usage, enhanced fuel economy, exhaust gas temperature increases, thermo-mechanical stability increase, thermal conductivity improvements, less stress on components of structures, a great increase of your equipment's lifespan, and protection of structures from extreme temperatures.
Where Will You Find Thermal Barrier Coatings?
Thermal barrier coating usually adheres to metallic surfaces, and, as you can imagine, it is often found on equipment like turbine blades, combustor cans, piston rings, cylinder heads, and other aero-engine parts. Thermal barrier coatings ability to protect such equipment from extreme heat, cold, and chemicals are essential. TBCs need to perform incredibly well under extremely tense thermo-mechanical environments.
If you have equipment that you believe will need thermal barrier coating to keep up with its environment, it will be important to do your research on the substance you’ll use to create this thermal barrier.
