MATERIALS
PROTECTING PARTS T
The importance of advanced surface treatments in enhancing the performance, durability and efficiency of components
ransportation components operate under demanding conditions, facing wear, fatigue, corrosion and
environmental stresses. With a legacy of engineering innovation and expertise, Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies’ (CWST) solutions address these critical challenges within automotive, aerospace, rail and heavy transport applications in order to extend the service life of parts and improve reliability. These technologies include shot peening, laser peening, thermal spray coatings, conformal coatings and engineered coatings, each tailored to meet specific operational requirements. Shot peening is a widely adopted
process in the transportation sector. It involves bombarding the surface of a material with small spherical media to induce beneficial compressive residual stresses. This treatment enhances fatigue resistance and reduces the likelihood of stress-corrosion cracking in components such as suspension springs, gear shafts, and turbine blades. Automotive manufacturers, for instance, rely on shot peening to ensure the longevity and resilience of drivetrain and chassis components. Laser peening, a more advanced
process, uses high-energy laser pulses to create deeper compressive stresses compared to traditional shot peening. This treatment is particularly effective for critical components like jet engine fan blades and high-performance automotive parts, ensuring they can withstand extreme operational stresses.
REDUCING WEAR AND FRICTION In transportation systems, reducing wear and friction is crucial for improving efficiency and minimising maintenance costs. CWST’s thermal spray coatings and Keronite plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) processes provide a robust solution by producing a protective layer for surfaces prone to wear. These coatings are used
Thermal spray coatings provide a protective layer for surfaces prone to wear
on components such as brake discs, cylinder bores, and engine parts, reducing friction and protecting against wear caused by high temperatures and mechanical stresses. The result is improved performance, fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Additionally, CWST offers Everlube dry film lubricants and engineered coatings that optimise the friction characteristics of moving parts. These treatments are particularly valuable for high-speed rail applications, where consistent performance and minimal downtime are essential.
CURBING CORROSION Corrosion is a significant challenge in the transportation industry, particularly in marine and rail environments where components are exposed to salt, moisture and harsh chemicals. CWST’s Everlube corrosion-resistant coatings protect surfaces from friction and degradation. By creating a barrier against corrosive elements, these treatments reduce maintenance requirements and extend the service life of components.
LIGHTWEIGHTING SOLUTIONS The transportation industry is increasingly focused on lightweighting to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. CWST supports these initiatives by offering treatments that allow for the use of lightweight materials like aluminium, magnesium and titanium without compromising performance. For example, the application of Keronite PEO provides an ultra-hard coating layer allowing lightweight materials to perform well beyond their normal operating parameters.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND COST BENEFITS By enhancing the durability and efficiency of components, CWST’s surface treatments contribute to sustainability efforts in the transportation industry. Longer- lasting components mean fewer replacements, reduced waste and lower operational costs. These benefits align with the industry’s goals of achieving greener and more efficient transportation solutions.
Ben Hayes is at Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies.
www.cwst.co.uk www.engineerlive.com 13
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