Indestructible Paint innovation brings twin benefits

A new chrome-free diffusion aluminium coating has now been developed by specialist coating manufacturer Indestructible Paint that is set to offer both performance and environmental gains.

Two-part chromium-free IPAL (CFIPAL) is free from hexavalent chrome at all stages of processing and use and has been developed to be of particular relevance to manufacturers of industrial and aerospace gas turbines, meeting the requirements of the REACH regulations.

“We have worked closely with a worldwide, UK-based gas turbine manufacturer in the field to develop this latest innovation,” said Brian Norton, managing director of Birmingham-based Indestructible Paint. “The product is now undergoing detailed, practical evaluation and testing with a focus on high temperature performance alongside stress and crack detection. We are delighted that the product is proving its performance with excellent stability.”

The development of CFIPAL has focused on whether new compositions can bring additional benefits to the market by further reducing environmental impact and improving service life. Consequently, the assessment includes a review of new production routes compared to existing processes to evaluate the full environmental impact of the new coating.

“Our industrial partners will gain economic benefits from their diffusion products which we anticipate will ultimately be incorporated into gas turbine engines for many years,” continues Norton. “End users of the technology will also gain an economic advantage by being supplied with low cost, reliable parts.”

Indestructible Paint highlights a key social benefit in terms of both personal health and safety of workers within the supply chain and the elimination of the risk of hexavalent chrome being released into the environment.

CFIPAL focuses in particular on providing corrosion protection from dirty fuel and air contamination during operation while, at the same time, preventing high temperature corrosion and oxidation. It is seen by the company as a major step forward and one which clearly promises both environmental and commercial advantages.

www.indestructible.co.uk