Abstract
A new plasma atomization process was developed for the production of spherical metal powders. This process, unique in its ability to produce large quantities of fine powders (< 75 µm), is especially interesting for value added products such as refractory or reactive metals/alloys powders. The excellent feeding characteristics of spherical powders make them ideal for applications such as injection molding and vacuum plasma spray (VPS) deposition. Powders are known to have a significant influence on the final characteristics of VPS deposited coatings. A variety of factors will control the coating quality, including: powder chemistry, morphology, microstructure, and feeding behaviour. This article includes a review of titanium coatings, and new results obtained using plasma atomized spherical powders.
