Relationships between Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Plasma Sprayed AlSi-Polyester Composite Coatings: Application to Abradable Materials

Abradable coatings are widely used within aeroengines. These materials are applied onto the inner surface of compressor and turbine shroud sections using thermal spray processes, coating the periphery of the blade rotation path. The functionality of an abradable seal is to wear preferentially when rotating blades come into contact with it, while minimizing the over-tip clearance, and improving the overall efficiency of the engine. This study is concerned with the relationships between the microstructure and mechanical properties of atmospheric plasma sprayed AlSi-Polyester composite coatings.