Characterization Of High-Velocity Single Particle Impacts On Thermally Sprayed Ceramic Coatings

High-velocity impact wear may have a significant effect on the lifetime of thermally sprayed coatings in multiple applications, e.g. in process- and aero industries. An experimental impact study was performed on thermally sprayed coatings with a high velocity particle impactor (HVPI) in oblique angles to investigate the damage, failure and deformation of the coating. The impact site was characterized with a profilometer, optical microscopy and SEM. Furthermore, the connection between the microstructural details and impact behaviour were studied to reveal the damage and failure characteristics in a more comprehensive level. Additionally, traditional dry-erosion behaviour with small particles and different angles was compared with the high-velocity single particle impact phenomena. Differences in wear volume and deformation of the impact site and in absorbance of kinetic energy were also studied, focusing on the effect of material properties as well as the impact characteristics.