The precision coating provides wear resistance against abrasion, erosion and corrosion on components made from ferrous and nickel-based alloys. It coats internal surfaces and offers technical and environmental advantages over hard chrome and HVOF. Independent ASTM G65 testing has shown that Hardide wears out 40 times slower than abrasion resistant AR-500, 12 times slower than hard chrome and four times slower than thermal spray tungsten carbide.

The current primary market for the coating is the oil and gas exploration and production industry where Hardide-coated components are in widespread use in extreme downhole and drilling applications around the world. The coating is also in service in the valve, power, chemical and food manufacturing industries.

“Hardide secured BAE Systems approval in 2006 for use on components in the precision locking system of the overhead canopy of the Eurofighter Typhoon,” said Neill Ricketts, managing director of Hardide Coatings. “We are delighted to now be in a three year test program with Airbus, and undergoing confidence testing with other leading players.

“The wear properties of Hardide and the precise nature of the coating process make it ideal for aerospace applications such as airframe, landing gear, positive locking systems, engine components and actuator-related products. It is also a cleaner process with less environmental impact than other coating technologies.”