Advanced Refractory Metal Coatings Via an Innovative Powder Metallurgy Approach

Armament Research Development and Engineering Center is interested in novel approaches to increase wear and erosion life of gun barrels. Prior work under the Advanced Materials for Gun Systems (AMGS) Program has identified that refractory metal alloys (tantalum-based) possess a balance of properties suited for this type of severe application. However, a processing methodology capable of bonding refractory alloys to a steel surface while retaing bond strength and microstructural control is desirable but not available. A Phase I program is proposes in which thermostructural modleing will be used to identify promising refractory alloys in collaboration with GE Armament Systems. Ceracon will apply an innovative cold isostatic processing approach to obtain a thin coating of refractory metal on the inner surface of steel. These materials will be fully densified and bonded using Ceracon's high pressure rapid consolidation process. Characterization and properties as well as wear erosion data, will be measured to enable down-selction of one coating material system for Phase II evaluation.