COATING TECHNOLOGY
Professor Yi Qin, department of design, manufacturing, and engineering management at the University of Strathclyde
PREDICTING COATINGS
Could machine-driven algorithms revolutionise the future of coating design? Jake Holmes finds out…
“
Those familiar with the mechanical manufacturing sector will know
of the great demand for tough metal components,” says Professor Yi Qin from the department of design, manufacturing and engineering management at the University of Strathclyde. According to him, this remains true when it comes to materials for complex engines. For these types of materials, coatings able to prevent the effects of corrosion, oxidations or other potentially damaging factors are crucial. Qin and his department are
responsible for the development of a new computer model which predicts coatings for specific applications for exact circumstances. The programme aims to remove the need for trial- and-error testing of coatings for critical applications. Hot forging dyes have gained
popularity for engine moulding and metal components, but if a coating
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is removed from this process the product life will be significantly shorter, he says. “Adding coatings is not just a mechanical need,” outlines Qin, “but also a business need, as shorter product lives will result in more expensive repairs and more downtime, leading to less productivity.” Coatings in themselves are not
necessarily a one-stop-shop answer to these concerns, however. Some coatings can contain toxic properties making them unsuitable for certain applications. Qin outlines the term “Green coating” to highlight coatings that do not have these toxic qualities and are safe for human interaction. Green coating not only has
application benefits but also environmental, as these coatings do not add to greenhouse gas emissions. These types of coatings are more sustainable and have the added benefit of being cheaper than counter coating.
The Technology and Innovation Centre at the University of Strathclyde
CODING COATINGS Qin’s research was made possible through the University of Strathclyde receiving a £600,000 fund from the European Union’s Horizon Europe fund. Being part-funded by the EU allows Qin and his team to access researchers across the continent to
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