Coating fatigue (ISO 13003)
Coating fatigue is a type of fatigue that occurs in coatings on a high-deflection blade skin. The coating, which are thin layers of material that are applied to the surface of the blade are via adhesion forced to follow the blade as it experiences high levels of strain. Coatings are used for a variety of reasons, including to protect the substrate from the climate and general wear and tear, to enhance its appearance, or to improve its functionality.
Coating fatigue is caused by the repeated stress and strain that is applied to the coating during use. This can cause cracking, flaking, or delamination of the coating, which can lead to reduced performance and reduced lifespan of the coated product. Coating fatigue can be caused by a variety of factors, including thermal stress, mechanical stress, and environmental stress.
There are a variety of testing methods that can be used to evaluate coating fatigue, including bend testing, and cyclic tension. These methods can be used to determine the resistance of coatings to fatigue and to identify potential failure points.
Coating fatigue can be mitigated by selecting coatings that are designed to be more resistant to fatigue and by applying coatings in a way that ensures the fatigue performance. Additionally, coatings can be designed with specific properties like flexibility, toughness and wear-resistance that can help to reduce the effects of coating fatigue.
It’s important to note that coatings are applied to protect the substrate from external factors, and in some cases, it is also important to evaluate the substrate’s fatigue resistance when planning for a fatigue testing. We perform this type of testing regularly and is ready to help you comply with the requirements specific for your product and industry.