The aerospace industry demands coatings that can withstand extreme temperatures, corrosion, and high levels of wear. Traditional aerospace coatings have long been used to protect aircraft and spacecraft components, but with advancements in materials science, Cerakote ceramic coatings are emerging as a superior alternative.
In this article, we compare Cerakote with traditional aerospace coatings to determine which provides better protection, durability, and performance for critical aerospace applications.
Traditional Aerospace Coatings: What Are They?
Traditional aerospace coatings are designed to protect aircraft components from environmental damage, chemical exposure, and mechanical wear. These coatings include:
1. Polyurethane Coatings
- Widely used for exterior aircraft surfaces.
- Provides UV protection and resistance to harsh weather conditions.
- Offers good chemical resistance but can degrade over time.
2. Epoxy Coatings
- Commonly used for primer layers to enhance adhesion and corrosion resistance.
- Highly durable but can be brittle under extreme conditions.
3. Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs)
- Used in jet engines and exhaust systems to protect against extreme heat.
- Typically made from ceramic-based materials but applied in thick layers.
While these coatings provide essential protection, they have limitations in terms of weight, thickness, and overall durability under extreme aerospace conditions. This is where Cerakote comes in.
Why Cerakote is Revolutionizing Aerospace Coatings
Originally developed for firearms and industrial applications, Cerakote ceramic coatings are now making waves in the aerospace industry due to their ultra-thin application, high-temperature resistance, and superior durability.
Key Advantages of Cerakote in Aerospace Applications:
🔥 Extreme Heat Resistance – Cerakote can withstand temperatures exceeding 1,800°F (980°C), making it ideal for engine components, exhaust systems, and high-heat aerospace structures.
🛡 Superior Corrosion Protection – Traditional coatings may crack or degrade over time, leading to corrosion. Cerakote forms a dense, moisture-resistant barrier, preventing oxidation and rust even in extreme environments.
💪 Unmatched Durability & Wear Resistance – Aerospace components experience significant friction and mechanical wear. Cerakote’s ultra-hard ceramic composition protects against abrasion, impact damage, and erosion better than traditional coatings.
⚖️ Lightweight & Thin Application – Unlike thick epoxy or thermal barrier coatings, Cerakote is applied in ultra-thin layers (as low as 1 mil), reducing weight without compromising protection—a critical factor in aerospace design.
🌍 Chemical & UV Resistance – Cerakote resists fuel, hydraulic fluids, and harsh chemicals, making it ideal for fuselage parts, landing gear, and fuel system components. Its UV stability also helps maintain colour and appearance.
Traditional Aerospace Coatings vs. Cerakote: A Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Aerospace Coatings | Cerakote Ceramic Coating |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Resistance | Limited (some up to 1,200°F) | Up to 1,800°F+ 🔥 |
| Corrosion Protection | Effective but prone to degradation | Superior, long-lasting protection 🛡 |
| Wear Resistance | Good, but can chip/crack | Highly abrasion-resistant 💪 |
| Weight & Thickness | Thicker coatings, adds weight | Ultra-thin, lightweight ⚖️ |
| Chemical Resistance | Varies, some coatings degrade | Highly resistant to chemicals & fuels 🛢 |
| Application Flexibility | Limited to specific parts | Works on metal, composites, polymers |
Where Cerakote is Used in the Aerospace Industry
🔹 Jet Engine Components – Protects against high-heat and oxidation.
🔹 Exhaust Systems – Reduces heat transfer and improves longevity.
🔹 Landing Gear & Structural Parts – Enhances wear and impact resistance.
🔹 Interior & Exterior Aircraft Surfaces – Prevents corrosion and UV degradation.
🔹 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) & Satellites – Provides lightweight, durable protection.
Conclusion: Which Coating is Best for Aerospace Applications?
While traditional aerospace coatings like polyurethane and epoxy offer some level of protection, they lack the durability, heat resistance, and weight efficiency needed for modern aerospace demands. Cerakote ceramic coatings outperform traditional options by providing:
✅ Better high-temperature protection
✅ Unmatched corrosion and wear resistance
✅ A lightweight, ultra-thin application
✅ Superior chemical and UV resistance
As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, Cerakote is becoming the go-to solution for high-performance coatings. If you’re looking for advanced coating solutions for aircraft, UAVs, or aerospace components, Supreme Coatings LTD offers professional Cerakote applications tailored to aerospace industry needs.
📞 Contact us today to discuss your aerospace coating requirements!