The Boracarb Surface Treatment--An Innovative Technological Solution
Boracarb is a unique ultra-high-temperature multiphase gas diffusional process that produces a “case depth” conversion layer similar in concept to carburizing of steel. Boracarb case is highly wear resistant, electrically insulating, robust and protects graphite from air oxidation to 900 C (1650 F) typically for THOUSANDS OF HOURS. Treated parts may also be used in inert atmospheres to 1900 C (3450 F) and vacuum to above 1600 C (2900 F).
Boracarb is not a coating nor a phosphate or borate impregnate with their inherent limitations. The Boracarb case is married to the graphite component whereby the dimensions and weight areessentially unchanged. This permits complex,tight dimensioned parts such as screw threads tobe successfully treated.
Boracarb is an enabling technology and allows graphite to replace traditional ceramics for many applications. Graphite offers many useful properties -- excellent thermal shock resistance, low cost, easy machinability, chemical resistance, good thermal conductivity and more. However, its use is rejected in favor of other less desirable ceramic materials because of graphite’s main limitations -- oxidation in air above 450 C (850 F), lack of wear resistance and, in some cases, its electrical conductivity. All of these limitations are overcome with the Boracarb treatment.
