Improving the performance of surfaces produced by the High Velocity Combustion / Sputtering (HVOF) process for aerospace applications
In the aerospace industry, HVOF-sprayed carbide coatings are increasingly replacing electrolytic hexavalent chromium (EHC) coatings on landing gear, as they eliminate the health risks posed by chromium VI. The superior properties of these coatings produced by HVOF provide a further advantage. However, inner diameter surfaces continue to be protected by electroplated chromium VI or nickel coatings, as it is still impossible to spray on concave surfaces with strong curvatures.
In this project, a new coating technology enabling HVOF to be applied to internal diameters is being developed for the tight spaces of landing gear components. The HVOF system has been miniaturized and the process adapted both in terms of raw materials and spray patterns.
The student will be involved in measuring the resistance of coatings to wear, corrosion and fatigue. Commonly used tungsten carbide materials as well as new alloys will be studied. This will help optimize spray patterns for future industrial applications.
Connaissances requises
- Solid knowledge and interest in materials science and engineering and production technology.
- Good ability to manage complex projects.
- Familiarity with laboratory work, including sample preparation and metallography, with particular attention to safety issues.
- Basic understanding of characterization methods (SEM-EDS, XRD, etc.) is an asset.
- Knowledge of the principles of and interest in the fields of tribology, wear, corrosion and fatigue.