Aluminum oxide (alumina) is one of the most widely used engineering ceramics. It is a hard, wear resistant material that is chemically inert and stable at high temperatures. In addition, the high purity grades (i.e. white alumina) exhibit excellent electrical insulation (dielectric characteristics) and thermal conductivity. As a result of these excellent properties and its low cost, alumina finds its use in a number of engineering applications. The material is available in powder form in a range of size distributions and chemistries. Typically applied by atmospheric plasma spray, this material has been used in many applications requiring abrasive, sliding and erosive wear resistance such as wear pads, seal rings, liners etc. High purity alumina is used for electrical, thermal and biomedical applications such as high tension and high temperature insulation, as a substrate for electronic components and for medical implants. Aluminum oxide based coatings should not be used where impact or shock loading occurs. Metco 105NS produces dense coatings that resist wear by abrasive fibers and threads and also resists erosion.
