Molykote® coating: innovative solutions in gear industry
settembre 27, 2023
In the gear industry, the quest for innovative solutions to enhance component performance and durability is constant. One of the treatments that has proven to make a difference is molykote® coating, a surface coating process that offers a range of key advantages for gears and other mechanical components.
What is molykote® coating? Process and application
Molykote® coating is a surface treatment based on molybdenum disulphide. This gray lacquer is applied to gear surfaces to enhance their performance and durability.
The application process of Molykote® Coating involves several key steps:
Surface preparation: before applying molykote® coating, it is crucial to adequately prepare the gear surface. This may include phosphating, which improves coating adhesion. Alternatively, methods like sandblasting, shot peening, or micro-sandblasting can be used to prepare the surface.
Coating application: molykote® coating can be applied in various ways, including immersion, spraying, or, in specific circumstances, with a brush. This layer of molybdenum disulphide is uniformly applied to the gear surface.
Annealing: after application, the gear undergoes annealing in a circulating air oven. This polymerization process is essential to securely bond the lacquer to the gear surface.
Features and benefits
Dry self-lubrication: one of the primary advantages of molykote® coating is its ability to help dry self-lubrication. This means that treated gears can operate without the need for additional oils, greases, or lubricants.
Corrosion protection: this treatment forms a protective barrier on gear surfaces, preventing corrosion and oxidation. This is particularly crucial in aggressive or moisture-exposed environments.
Reduction of friction coefficient: molykote® coating significantly reduces the friction coefficient between gear surfaces, enhancing efficiency and reducing wear.
Improved anchoring: it can be applied to previously phosphated surfaces to enhance coating adhesion, thus increasing its longevity.
Materials of application and weaknesses
Molykote® coating can be successfully applied to various materials, including:
Steel
Cast Iron
Non-ferrous Metals
Despite its numerous advantages, it is essential to be aware of some contraindications of molykote® coating. It is not suitable for stainless steel components. Attention is required in surface preparation, including phosphating or other appropriate preparations to ensure treatment effectiveness.
Molykote® coating is a valuable treatment for gears, as it offers dry self-lubrication, corrosion protection, friction coefficient reduction, and enhanced adhesion. Its application can contribute to extending the service life of components and improving overall gear efficiency in industrial applications. However, careful consideration of surface preparation and material specifications is essential before applying this treatment. GSI provides targeted consulting to help companies choose the right approach for their project.
This website uses cookies
We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you’ve provided to them or that they’ve collected from your use of their services.
