Solid particle erosion studies on thermally deposited alumina–titania coatings over aluminium alloy

Thermal barrier coatings are widely used for surface modifications. Surface modifications are performed to enhance the surface properties of the material and protect the same from surface degradation such as erosion and corrosion. To increase the wear resistance, the ceramic based coatings are highly recommended in the industrial sector. In this paper, alumina-titania ceramic powder is deposited on the aluminium alloy using atmospheric plasma spray (APS) technique. Experimental investigations are performed to study the material behavior and its erosion rate. Solid particle erosion studies are performed by varying particle velocity and particle flow rate. The angle impingement and stand-of-distance are maintained constant for comparison. The behavior of base metal has clinging effect and the mass change found negative at a maximum particle flow rate of 4g/min. At the same process condition coated sample has lost his life and reached a maximum erosion rate of 0.052 (Δg/g). From the solid particle erosion studies, it has been confirmed that the behavior of as cast aluminium alloy has severe surface damage with erodent reinforcement when compared to coated samples. The influence of particle velocity and the particle flow rate were analyzed. The influence of input process parameter was also identified.