High-Performance Ceramic Coatings: Technical Report
This report summarises manufacturer test data on four high-temperature exhaust coatings (C-186, C-7300 Black Velvet, V-171 Turbine Coat and W-207/W-350), comparing their thermal barrier performance and chemical resistance. The data comes from Cerakote (NIC Industries, Inc.). We’ve summarised it here to help you choose the right coating for your parts.
How high-temperature ceramic coatings work
These coatings start as a liquid resin. During curing, the resin forms a three-dimensional ceramic matrix, trapping performance-enhancing materials within it. The result is a durable, heat-resistant finish that also acts as a thermal barrier.
- Curing: both ambient (air) cure and oven cure systems are available.
- Substrates: the coatings can be used on a range of substrates, including steel and aluminium.
- Thickness: typical coating thickness is 0.5–1.0 mil, so they suit close-tolerance areas.
- Over other finishes: MC Series clear coats are also used over chrome plating, PVD finishes and some powder coatings, to prevent “rainbowing” caused by excessive heat.
The table below outlines each coating type.
Thermal barrier testing
How the test was run
Each of the four coatings was applied to a 3-foot length of cold-rolled steel pipe with a 2-inch inner diameter, and cured to its recommended schedule. An uncoated pipe was tested for comparison. A gas burner heated each pipe with an airflow of 100 SCFM, through three stages:
- ramp to 572°F in one minute, then hold for 10 minutes
- ramp to 1,112°F in one minute, then hold for 10 minutes
- ramp to 1,706°F in one minute, then hold for 10 minutes
Three thermocouples on each pipe recorded the outer skin temperature every second.
Results
- Below 572°F: C-7300 Black Velvet performed best. At 572°F, it reduced the outer skin temperature by 110°F.
- Above 572°F: V-171 Turbine Coat gave the most thermal protection, reducing the skin temperature by 102°F at 1,112°F and 185°F at 1,706°F.
- After testing: C-186, C-7300 and V-171 kept full adhesion (5B), colour and gloss. W-207/W-350 showed a slight loss of adhesion and gloss, which the manufacturer suggests can be prevented by coating the inside of the pipe with V-171 Turbine Coat.
Figure 1: outer skin temperature over time for four coated pipes and one uncoated cold-rolled steel pipe, from ambient to 1,706°F.
Chemical resistance
Coated panels were immersed in 13 different solvents for 24 hours, then assessed and ranked for their resistance to each chemical.
- C-186, C-7300 and V-171: rated excellent in every solvent, meaning they were unaffected after 24 hours.
- W-207/W-350: rated excellent in 9 of the solvents and fair to good in the rest.
Choosing the right coating
For most exhausts and manifolds, the C Series range (including C-7300 Black Velvet) and our Glacier range offer an excellent balance of heat resistance, appearance and durability. We’ll recommend the right coating for your part. See also ceramic coating as a thermal barrier.
Test data source: Cerakote / NIC Industries, Inc.
For a quote, call 01621 841100 or email msb@msbpcl.co.uk.
Technical FAQs
Which ceramic coating gives the best thermal protection?
In manufacturer testing, C-7300 Black Velvet performed best below 572°F, while V-171 Turbine Coat gave the most protection at higher temperatures.
How thick is a ceramic exhaust coating?
Typically 0.5–1.0 mil, which makes it suitable for close-tolerance areas.
Are ceramic exhaust coatings chemical resistant?
Yes. C-186, C-7300 and V-171 were rated excellent after 24-hour immersion in 13 different solvents.