Tungsten Carbide Thermal Spray Powders

Parkway-Kew applies tungsten carbide coatings using multiple processes including High Velocity Oxy-Fuel (HVOF), plasma spray, metallizing, submerged arc, and fuse welding. Each process is selected based on the component geometry, operating environment, and desired coating properties to ensure the best performance for your specific application.

Industries with high-wear, high-pressure, or corrosive operating environments benefit most, including oil and gas (fracking plungers), wire drawing (blocks and capstans), shipping terminals (trolley festoon wheels), and heavy manufacturing. Any application involving repetitive contact, abrasion, or chemical exposure is a strong candidate for tungsten carbide coating.

Service life depends on operating conditions, substrate material, and the specific coating grade applied. Parkway-Kew's tungsten carbide coatings are designed for maximum longevity. With the proprietary Restore & Grind process, components can be reconditioned 5–7 times before full recoating is required, significantly extending the total useful life of each part.

Yes. Parkway-Kew offers full-service rebuilding and recoating for worn components. The Restore & Grind process fills and blends the worn drawline area, restoring the component to working condition. Components can undergo multiple repair cycles before requiring a full recoat, reducing costs and minimizing production downtime considerably.

Parkway-Kew offers several tungsten carbide matrix coatings including PK-675, PK-700, and PK-750 applied via HVOF, and PK-730 — a proprietary fused tungsten carbide coating specifically engineered for fracking plungers. These grades vary in matrix composition and hardness to suit different load, abrasion, and corrosion conditions across industries.

HVOF (High Velocity Oxy-Fuel) sprays powder at speeds exceeding Mach 2, producing a very dense, low-porosity coating with excellent bond strength — ideal for high-wear applications like wire drawing blocks. Plasma spray operates at higher temperatures, making it well-suited for ceramic coatings like PK-1500 Chrome Oxide. The best process depends on material type and service demands.