Does Cerakote Scratch Easily?
Cerakote is applied to various materials to improve properties such as wear resistance, chemical resistance, corrosion resistance, and impact strength. It can be applied to ferrous and nonferrous metals, plastics, wood, fiberglass, and composites such as carbon fiber and Kevlar.
Does Cerakote scratch easily? The short answer is no. This coating is engineered to withstand significant scratching and abrasion. It undergoes rigorous testing and has been shown to outperform many other finishes, such as bluing, and parkerizing.
What Is Cerakote?
Cerakote is a high-performance, customizable ceramic coating that improves the longevity and functionality of whatever it is applied to. It is made up of dry and liquid materials that allow it to be sprayable. Once the coating is applied, the carrier solvents evaporate, and the coating will self-level and provide a smooth, even finish.
Benefits
The main advantages of applying Cerakote include:
- It reduces friction between moving parts to ensure smooth operation and minimize the risk of malfunctions.
- It prolongs the lifespan of critical components and maintains optimal performance.
- Cerakote can withstand extreme temperatures, protecting items such as firearms from heat-induced damage.
Applications
Cerakote ceramic coatings are applied to:
- Automotive parts
- Aircraft components
- Power tools
- Machinery parts
- Fishing and hunting equipment
- Firearms
- Architectural hardware
- Industrial equipment
- Sporting goods
- Marine and military equipment
Cerakote is also an environmentally responsible choice, as it contains no heavy metals and meets U.S. VOC compliance standards.
Cerakote Durability and Scratch Resistance
Cerakote is exceptionally abrasion-resistant, surpassing ASTM standard testing and ratings for hardness and adhesion. Its durability is tied to its chemical and corrosion resistance, as well as its thermal stability. It is also highly flexible, as shown in the ASTM D2794 impact resistance test. All Cerakote Elite and almost all Cerakote H series have an impact strength of 160 in-lbs, the maximum impact the tester can measure. Items with this coating get additional durability, scratch resistance, and consistent color.
The coating’s chemical resistance has been analyzed in various solvents under extreme conditions. Cerakote® Elite and H Series have passed numerous tests in different chemical compounds without adversely affecting their structure. The salt spray ASTM B117 test evaluates the corrosion resistance of coated surfaces, and Cerakote outperforms all the other thin film coatings on the market.
Achieving Optimal Cerakote Durability
Surface preparation is key to achieving optimal results. Clean and degrease parts to create a contaminant-free surface for better adhesion. Use abrasive media to achieve the proper surface finish to enhance adhesion and durability. Remove any residual abrasive and dust. Inspect the surface for imperfections such as dents and scratches to ensure a smooth and uniform finish.
Wait a minimum of 15 minutes to 2 hours for the coating to flash before the curing process. After application, cure in an oven or a heat chamber at a controlled temperature and duration to ensure the coating reaches maximum hardness and durability.
Cerakote is a permanent ceramic coating that solvents or typical cleaning methods cannot remove; it must be stripped through abrasive blasting. EpiX MP from 10X Engineered Materials is specially engineered for high-performance coating removal. It excels at stripping Cerakote and similar finishes faster and more thoroughly than conventional abrasives, while producing an exceptionally white, clean surface profile ideal for re-coating.
Where Is Cerakote Most Vulnerable to Scratches?
Despite its durability, Cerakote can be scratched if exposed to extreme abrasion or sharp objects. The finish can be damaged under various circumstances, for example, if the item is dropped, scratches can occur at the point of contact. However, the area will not continue to chip and peel like most other coatings would. Another example is when a firearm is drawn and reholstered repeatedly; the holster can rub against the finish, causing scratches on the firearm. Proper surface preparation, including cleaning and sandblasting, significantly influences the durability and adhesion of the coating.
Tips to Maximize Cerakote Scratch Resistance
Follow these tips to minimize scratching Cerakote:
- Adjust the pressure on your blast systems according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- After blasting, remove any debris from your parts using a strong air knife.
- To prevent introducing any sources of surface contamination before applying cerakote products, do not use powdered gloves when handling parts after blasting.
- Ensure your parts are free of grease and oils.
- Select the appropriate Cerakote series for your specific application.
Want the Most Durable Cerakote Finish? Contact 10X Engineered Materials for Expert Application
Achieving a high-quality surface finish for a Cerakote application requires preparation with abrasive blasting and proper maintenance to ensure the coating’s longevity. Contact 10X Engineered Materials today for expert advice on achieving the best surface preparation when using Cerakote products to maximize durability and protect your investment.
Call us at 888-707-5034 to learn more about our blasting media products, or fill out our contact form to discuss your sandblasting applications.