Quality characterization of HVOF thermal spray coating with NiCr matrix composite for protection application of coal fired boiler tubes

In line with the Indonesian government's policy on national electrification plans by developing a 35,000 MW power generating facility which has been started since 2014, the need arises for high temperature resistant materials for application in the program. Moreover, materials dedicated to engineering equipment such as boilers as a steam producer to drive the coal-fired power plant turbine is required to be compatible in extreme condition. The operational challenge of materials at high temperatures becomes serious, especially as the use of low quality coal as fuel in the combustion system creates degradation problems on tube surfaces such as erosion and corrosion thereby limiting boiler tube life. Thermal spray coating technologies for high temperature operations have been developed with the aim of protecting boiler tubes from aggressive environments, improving thermal efficiency, and reducing time losses from damage. High velocity oxy fuel (HVOF) technology is one of the recommended methods to be used in boiler tubes at coal-fired power plant (PLTU). The following report discusses the HVOF thermal spray coating deposition of metal-matrix composites with combination of feedstock NiCr as metal matrix which has -37μm of size particles with ceramic metal including chromium carbide and alumina as reinforcement on SUS 304 substrate. (paper)