Numerous tribological systems represent important functions in powertrain. Thermal spraying offers solutions for different components of the engine and the gearbox. In the engine the reduction of coefficient of friction can be considered as a major interest for the reduction of the fuel consumption. Especially the cylinder liner and the piston group can be optimized by the using of various thermal spray coatings.

Further a reduction of the weight can be obtained by the application of relative thin functional coating. So is a further potential for optimization of the fuel consumption. Since more than five years cylinder bores coatings are produced in series at OEM automotive companies.

The deposition of coating on connecting rod is also considered as a further potential for manufacturing in large series. A reduction of the bearing size contributes to a further weight reduction of the dynamic parts of the engine.

By the gearbox components a constant coefficient of friction on a certain level is required to obtain a high level of comfort by the shifting. The wear resistance plays an important roll and can adjust by metallurgical modification of the deposit coatings.