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Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. -- Metals Solutions -- Ask the Expert
     
 

Rob Hostinak
Industry Engineer

     
  Question How does hydrogen compare to traditional hydrocarbon fuels for my HVOF operation?
 

Answer

 

 

Traditional HVOF (High Velocity Oxy-Fuel) systems use a few types of fuels for combustion, typically kerosene, methane (natural gas), propane, propylene and hydrogen. While each fuel has its benefits, hydrogen offers some unique advantages. Because of its higher thermal conductivity, hydrogen achieves the best heat transfer from the flame to the powder particles, despite having an overall lower flame temperature than the hydrocarbons. Excess hydrogen in the flame also creates a reducing atmosphere, which lowers oxide production. Since the stoichiometric reactants of hydrogen and oxygen completely combust, unburned residuals are not deposited on the coating. As the lightest gas with the highest speed of sound properties, hydrogen has the highest potential particle velocity—allowing for higher particle adhesion. Plus you don’t need heating pads in the winter to ensure sufficient fuel flow to your booth as you do with other fuels.

To learn how hydrogen fuel can benefit your HVOF operation, call 800-654-4567.