Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is proud to announce the launch of the Synthesis and Characterization of Ceramic Layered Steel Tube using Centrifuge Thermite Process for High-Temperature Applications project, spearheaded by Dr. N. Radhika, Professor at Amrita School of Engineering, Coimbatore, along with her esteemed co-investigators, Dr. M. Ramu, Professor at ASE Coimbatore, and Dr. M. Sathishkumar M, Assistant Professor at ASE Chennai. This funding was provided by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) – Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB).

Project Overview:

This innovative project focuses on the development of ceramic-coated steel tubes using the centrifuge thermite process, a cutting-edge technique that enables the production of thicker, denser ceramic linings for steel tubes—something that is not achievable with traditional methods. The primary objective is to enhance the durability of steel tubes used in high-pressure, erosive, corrosive, and high-temperature environments, significantly extending their lifespan.

Steel tubes are widely used in industries such as power generation, metallurgy, mining, and chemical processing, where they are subjected to harsh conditions that lead to corrosion and wear. This project seeks to address these challenges by applying a self-sustaining high-temperature reaction to create ceramic coatings that provide superior abrasion and corrosion resistance.

Methodology:

The team utilizes a thermite reaction, involving a precise mix of iron oxide (Fe₂O₃) and aluminum (Al), ignited by an oxy-acetylene torch. This reaction generates the high temperatures needed to create a ceramic coating, which is then deposited on the inner surface of steel tubes using centrifugal force. This process results in a homogeneous and dense coating that is ideal for extreme industrial conditions.

Expected Outcomes:

• The project aims to produce thicker ceramic linings that provide enhanced wear and corrosion resistance compared to conventional methods.
• The high-density coatings will be critical in applications where materials are exposed to extreme erosive, corrosive, and high-temperature conditions.
• The technique developed in this project will help in extending the lifespan of industrial pipes and equipment, reducing maintenance costs, and improving operational efficiency.

Key Areas of Impact

This project is expected to contribute significantly to industries such as petrochemicals, marine applications, cement production, and sewage treatment. The coatings produced by this process are designed to withstand the harshest environments, ensuring the longevity and reliability of critical infrastructure.

Recognition and Collaboration

The project is supported by the Department of Science and Technology – SERB, and the researchers have received positive feedback for the innovative approach and the potential impact of their work. The interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers at Amrita School of Engineering, Coimbatore and Chennai, along with the practical applications of the project, ensures that the outcomes will be valuable not only for academia but also for industries in need of durable, high-performance materials.

This project marks an important step towards creating advanced materials that will help meet the growing demands of high-temperature, high-stress industrial applications, contributing to more sustainable and cost-effective solutions for the future.