Markets

In the offshore and marine sectors, controlling the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is paramount due to the high demands on equipment reliability and durability in harsh conditions. Corrosion resistance is a critical factor, particularly for components exposed to saltwater, such as hydraulic cylinder rods that are often extended for long periods. This leaves them vulnerable to severe corrosion, especially at the exposed ends. Other components face splash zones and abrasive materials or are totally submerged like ship propellor shafts, requiring robust protective coatings. 

Topclad’s laser cladding solutions are specifically designed to tackle these challenges, providing superior corrosion resistance and reducing both maintenance intervals and operational costs. All of our offshore and marine applications are active in the field for many years, proving their durability while keeping the TOC in check.

Dredging equipment endures continuous exposure to corrosive water and abrasive materials, demanding strong protection. Just like the offshore and maritime market, the reliability of dredging equipment plays a major role in the selection criteria of materials. Among others overflow cylinders, spud carrier cylinders and bottom door cylinders are exposed to a highly corrosive environment. The ability to withstand high levels of debris and to absorb energy from external impact – without damaging the corrosion protection shield – are other important technical requirements for dredging equipment. Our tailored Quarite NR+ and Tardisphere layers are specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the dredging environment.

Topclad provides laser cladding solutions that are specifically engineered to protect bridges, water locks, and other civil engineering structures from harsh environmental factors. In environments where these structures are exposed to varying conditions—from saltwater areas to brackish or fresh water—the need for specialized protection is paramount. Typically, hydraulic cylinders may have fewer movements compared to other applications or are often fully extended, raising the risk of severe corrosion. Our protective coatings are designed to prevent corrosion, which is critical in maintaining the structural integrity and extending the lifespan of these assets. Moreover, for precise control of bridge deck or water lock door positions, Topclad can incorporate a Length Measuring System (a laser cladded CIMS system) within the Quarite layers.

The main similarity between heavy machinery in construction and earthmoving, also known as yellow goods, is their ability to guarantee a high reliability. To ensure this reliability the equipment must be able to withstand the harshest shocks, impacts from outside and high wear due to abrasive particles in the environment. The main activities are digging, dragging, scraping, drilling and heavy duty transport. In many cases, this equipment is jobwise hired, for very intensive usage and minimum time or attention for maintenance. The hydraulic cylinders need to be very reliable and fool-prove.  

Topclad’s Tardisphere layer, with its tungsten carbide composition, offers a combination of a high corrosion resistance with an excellent wear and impact resistance. The tungsten carbides are imbedded in a matrix of a nickel-based superalloy and have a hardness of 2700HV. Learn more about our Heavy Equipment solutions.

Basically, mining is the extraction of minerals from the earth. The related equipment is hence used for activities as drilling, rock cutting, loading, breaking, crushing and tunnelling. Mining equipment can be subjected to a lot of abrasive particles, aggressive gases (H2S), salt water, changing loads and external impacts. Besides that, this type of equipment needs to be in operation 24/7. Maximum uptime of this capital-intensive equipment is required. 

Topclad’s Tardisphere layer is engineered to provide superior wear resistance, protecting components like drilling tools and conveyors, maximizing uptime and reducing maintenance costs. Learn more about our Mining solutions.

The steel industry relies on components like rollers, mandrels and drums that withstand high temperatures and mechanical stress. Topclad’s laser cladding solutions, such as Quarite XT and Tardisphere, offer high wear and thermal resistance (up to 950C°) ensuring long service life in high-temperature environments near furnaces. Learn more about our Steel Industry solutions.

In food processing, maintaining hygiene while ensuring equipment durability is key. Stainless steel is therefore a common used material in the food processing industry, as it is durable and to a certain level able to resist lye and acid needed for cleaning and rinsing. In some cases stainless steel is not allowed, because this alloy might resolve in certain cleaning liquids. In these cases a nickel-based layer provides a chemical and corrosion resistant solution. Topclad provides laser cladding solutions that offer corrosion-resistant, easy-to-clean surfaces, extending the lifespan of mixers, conveyors, and other processing equipment. Our coatings comply with stringent sanitary standards, making them ideal for the food industry. Learn more about our Food Processing solutions.