Main Causes of Wear for Equipment in the Sugar Industry
In the sugar industry, equipment is often subjected to a variety of harsh conditions that lead to significant wear and tear. APEX ETG’s laser cladding services can provide an effective solution to these issues. The main causes of wear for equipment in this industry include:
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Abrasive Wear
This is caused by the constant contact with sugar cane fibres and other particulate matter during processing. The abrasive nature of these materials can lead to the gradual wearing down of surfaces in contact, such as crushing rollers and conveyor belts.
APEX ETG’s laser cladding technology counters this by applying a hard, wear-resistant layer to these surfaces, significantly reducing the rate of abrasion and extending equipment life.
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Cavitation Erosion
Cavitation erosion results from forming and collapsing vapor bubbles in a fluid due to rapid pressure changes. This phenomenon can cause severe damage to pumps and valves, especially in areas of low pressure.
APEX ETG’s laser cladding enhances resistance to bubble collapse by depositing a specialised coating, thereby protecting the surfaces from cavitation damage.
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Corrosive Wear
Components such as pipes and pumps face corrosive environments, especially in sugar processing areas.
APEX ETG’s laser cladding service applies coatings that are resistant to corrosion, providing a durable barrier and maintaining the integrity of the equipment in harsh chemical environments.
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Erosive Wear
The high-speed impacts in centrifuges and pumps, which cause erosion, are effectively mitigated by APEX ETG’s laser cladding. The coatings applied are designed to absorb and resist these impacts, thereby reducing erosion and prolonging the equipment’s operational efficiency.
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Mechanical Wear
Mechanical components like gears and bearings are prone to wear and tear.
APEX ETG’s precise laser cladding can apply tailored coatings to these parts, enhancing their durability and lifespan under continuous operational stress.
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Thermal Fatigue Wear
Boilers and processing tanks undergo thermal fatigue due to heating and cooling cycles.
APEX ETG’s laser cladding can enhance the resistance of these components to thermal stress, thereby minimising the risks of fatigue and potential failures.
Applications
- Cane Crushing Equipment
- Pump and Valve Components
- Centrifuge Components
- Boiler Tubes and Panels
- Internal Diameter Components