Behavior of polymer thin films deposed on bronze surfaces at cavitation erosion

Abstract

One of the most actual problems regarding reparation and reconditioning of ships propellers surfaces or of some parts of hydraulic machines (turbines, pumps) is that of the erosion produced by cavitation, both from technical difficulties and costs. That is why researchers and builders are searching for new cheap solutions mainly regarding these surfaces protection. The present study concerns the analysis of polymer thin films meant to protect surfaces of bronze parts exposed to cavitation. The bronze is a material frequently used to cast maritime or fluvial vessels propellers. The test, conducted at Timisoara Polytechnic University Cavitation Laboratory on standard vibrating equipment, showed the poor resistance of polymer films and revealed the necessity of continuation the studies especially in finding new techniques in order to increase the polymer films adhesion to the metallic surfaces that had to be protected.