Metco, part of the newly formed Oerlikon Surface Solutions Segment, says the carbides can withstand corrosion, impact, high compressive loads, severe abrasion and other extreme stresses.

The carbide materials are offered for weld overlay and thermal spray.

“With rising expenses for oil and gas exploration and expectations for production companies to increase annual earnings over the next five years, it is vital that industry growth is supported by safe and reliable technologies,” said Oerlikon Metco’s vice president and head of global marketing, Hans Keller.

Manfred Oechsle, product line manager at Oerlikon Metco for carbides and hard facing materials, said the surfaces can be customized. “The key is to design a combination with the right wear and the right corrosion resistance for the downhole formation pH and hardness,” he said.

Applications include protecting high-pressure gate valves, used for flow diversion and safety applications, from damaging surface attacks ensuring smooth actuation and safe operation.