Jump to content

Zircotec: Difference between revisions

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
→‎OEM providers: added additional vehicle
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile app edit Android app edit
 
(39 intermediate revisions by 16 users not shown)
Line 8: Line 8:
| location_country = [[England]]
| location_country = [[England]]
| products = {{ubl|Thermohold Coatings|Zircoflex}}
| products = {{ubl|Thermohold Coatings|Zircoflex}}
| num_employees = 20-50
| num_employees = 50–100
| homepage = {{URL|zircotec.com|zircotec.com}}
| homepage =
| bodystyle =
| bodystyle =
}}
}}


'''Zircotec''' is a high temperature coating and heat barrier manufacturer, based in [[Abingdon, Oxfordshire|Abingdon]] near [[Oxford]], [[England]]. It uses [[thermal spraying|plasma-sprayed]] [[ceramic]] materials to provide thermal and abrasive resistance to components - with a focus on automotive [[exhaust systems]]. Its best-known products include coloured [[thermal barrier coatings]] and Zircoflex - a flexible ceramic [[heatshield]].
'''Zircotec''' is a high temperature coating and heat barrier manufacturer, based in [[Abingdon, Oxfordshire|Abingdon]] near [[Oxford]], [[England]]. It uses [[thermal spraying|plasma-sprayed]] [[ceramic]] materials to provide thermal and abrasive resistance to components – with a focus on automotive [[exhaust systems]]. Its best-known products include coloured [[thermal barrier coatings]] and Zircoflex – a flexible ceramic [[heatshield]].


==History==
==History==
[[File:Plasma Spraying Process.jpg|right|thumb|Zircotec Plasma-Spray Process]]
[[File:Plasma Spraying Process.jpg|right|thumb|Zircotec plasma-spray process]]


===1960-2003: Development at UKAEA===
===1960–2003: Development at UKAEA===
Zircotec began life as part of the [[United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority]], where its high temperature coatings and heat barrier processes were originally developed for the [[nuclear power|nuclear industry]]. It was based at the [[Atomic Energy Research Establishment]] near [[Harwell, Oxfordshire|Harwell]], [[Oxfordshire]]. At the time, this was the main centre for [[atomic energy]] research and development in the [[United Kingdom]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/page/about_zircotec/203 |title= About Zircotec|accessdate= 2013-04-23|format= |work= }}</ref>
Zircotec began life as part of the [[United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority]], where its high temperature coatings and heat barrier processes were originally developed for the [[nuclear power|nuclear industry]]. It was based at the [[Atomic Energy Research Establishment]] near [[Harwell, Oxfordshire|Harwell]], [[Oxfordshire]]. At the time, this was the main centre for [[atomic energy]] research and development in the [[United Kingdom]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/page/about_zircotec/203 |title= About Zircotec|access-date= 2013-04-23}}</ref>


In 1994, Zircotec's thermal barrier coatings were first used in a [[motorsport]] application. These coatings were applied to the exhaust systems of [[Subaru]] [[rallying|rally cars]] to lower in-cabin temperatures. After initial success, these high temperature coatings were then used on a variety of other vehicles, including [[Formula One cars]] and trucks.
In 1994, Zircotec's thermal barrier coatings were first used in a [[motorsport]] application. These coatings were applied to the exhaust systems of [[Subaru]] [[rallying|rally cars]] to lower in-cabin temperatures. After initial success, these high temperature coatings were then used on a variety of other vehicles, including [[Formula One cars]] and trucks.


===2003-09: Foundation of Zircotec===
===2003–2009: Foundation of Zircotec===
Zircotec was bought by a venture capital fund in 2003. Subsequently, Zircotec shifted its focus from the nuclear industry, towards general industry and automotive applications. As a result, Zircotec developed Thermohold coatings for high performance [[automotive]] and [[classic car]] applications. Their main Thermohold coating was called Performance White, a white dual-layer plasma-sprayed ceramic.
Zircotec was bought by a venture capital fund in 2003. Subsequently, Zircotec shifted its focus from the nuclear industry, towards general industry and automotive applications. As a result, Zircotec developed Thermohold coatings for high performance [[automotive]] and [[classic car]] applications. Their main Thermohold coating was called Performance White, a white dual-layer plasma-sprayed ceramic.


In July 2007, Terry Graham was appointed as the new managing director.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/newsitem/3/5 |title= New Zircotec Managing Director|accessdate= 2013-04-23}}</ref> Later that year, high performance sportscar manufacturer [[Koenigsegg]] announced it would be using Zircotec coatings on its [[Koenigsegg CCX|CCX]] supercar.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.autopresspoint.com/site.php?page=news&browse=true&p=82&|title= Autopresspoint.com news|accessdate= 2013-04-24}}</ref> Additionally, in October, Zircotec became involved in the world land speed steam-car record attempt, supplying its coatings for thermal protection of sensitive components - this attempt was successful a year later.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ceramicindustry.com/articles/zircotec-to-supply-coatings-for-british-steam-car-challenge-posted-11-27-07 |title= Ceramic Industry News - Zircotec to supply coatings for British steam car challenge|accessdate= 2013-04-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8209288.stm |title= BBC News - UK team breaks steam car record|accessdate= 2013-04-24}}</ref>
In July 2007, Terry Graham was appointed as the new managing director.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/newsitem/3/5 |title= New Zircotec Managing Director|access-date= 2013-04-23}}</ref> Later that year, high performance sportscar manufacturer [[Koenigsegg]] announced it would be using Zircotec coatings on its [[Koenigsegg CCX|CCX]] supercar.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.autopresspoint.com/site.php?page=news&browse=true&p=82&|title= Autopresspoint.com news|access-date= 2013-04-24}}</ref> Additionally, in October, Zircotec became involved in the world land speed steam-car record attempt, supplying its coatings for thermal protection of sensitive components – this attempt was successful a year later.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ceramicindustry.com/articles/zircotec-to-supply-coatings-for-british-steam-car-challenge-posted-11-27-07 |title= Ceramic Industry News - Zircotec to supply coatings for British steam car challenge|access-date= 2013-04-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8209288.stm |title= BBC News - UK team breaks steam car record|access-date= 2013-04-24}}</ref>


In June 2008, Zircotec developed a plasma-sprayed ceramic coating specifically for [[Fibre-reinforced plastic|composite materials]]. Predominantly aimed at motorsport and high-performance car applications, coated composites could now function at temperatures above their melting points.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ceramic car coating (or glass coating) – 10 myths. |url=https://nano-zen.com/ceramic-car-coating-or-liquid-glass-coating-10-myths/}}</ref>
In June 2008, Zircotec developed a plasma-sprayed ceramic coating specifically for [[Fibre-reinforced plastic|composite materials]]. Predominantly aimed at motorsport and high-performance car applications, coated composites could now function at temperatures above their melting points.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ceramic car coating (or glass coating) – 10 myths. |url=https://nano-zen.com/ceramic-car-coating-or-liquid-glass-coating-10-myths/}}</ref>


In September 2008, Zircotec launched its Performance Colours range. This range is based on Zircotec's Performance White coating, but has an additional coloured finish - offering a more robust and maintainable finish. Zircotec initially released thirteen different colours, with plans to increase this variety over the next few years.
In September 2008, Zircotec launched its Performance Colours range. This range is based on Zircotec's Performance White coating, but has an additional coloured finish, offering a more robust and maintainable finish. Zircotec initially released thirteen different colours, with plans to increase this variety over the next few years.


===2009-present: Management buyout===
===2009–2019: Management buyout===
Zircotec's directors completed a [[management buyout]] early in 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.easier.com/4491-zircotec-completes-management-buy-out.html |title= Easier.com news - Zircotec completes management buy out|accessdate= 2013-04-23}}</ref>
Zircotec's directors completed a [[management buyout]] early in 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.easier.com/4491-zircotec-completes-management-buy-out.html |title= Easier.com news – Zircotec completes management buy out|access-date= 2013-04-23}}</ref>


In 2010, the company's headquarters were relocated to the nearby town of [[Abingdon, Oxfordshire|Abingdon]], [[Oxfordshire]]. The move was completed to provide increased production capacity and to accommodate future business growth.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/newsitem/3/68 |title= Zircotec acquires new production space at Abingdon, Oxfordshire|accessdate= 2013-04-23}}</ref>
In 2010, the company's headquarters were relocated to the nearby town of [[Abingdon, Oxfordshire|Abingdon]], [[Oxfordshire]]. The move was completed to provide increased production capacity and to accommodate future business growth.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/newsitem/3/68 |title= Zircotec acquires new production space at Abingdon, Oxfordshire|access-date= 2013-04-23}}</ref>


In 2011, Zircotec developed the world's first flexible ceramic [[heatshield]], named Zircoflex.
In 2011, Zircotec developed the world's first flexible ceramic [[heatshield]], named Zircoflex.{{citation needed|date=October 2019}}


In July 2019, Zircotec experienced a fire at its premises and temporarily relocated to a nearby facility.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/zircotec-increase-capacity-ten-fold// |title=Zircotec moves into £2m premises |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>
==Products==
===Performance Range===
[[File:Coloured ceramic thermal barrier coating on exhaust component.jpg|right|thumb|Chilled Red Performance Colours Coated Exhaust Pipe]]


===2019–present: Expansion===
Zircotec's Performance Range is based on its Thermohold coating. Each coating consists of a ceramic based material, plasma-sprayed in two layers onto the component. This coating is predominantly used for [[thermal insulation]], thermal protection and its [[wear|anti-wear]] properties. When used on an automotive exhaust system, exhaust skin temperature and under-bonnet temperature have been reduced by 33% and 50&nbsp;°C, respectively.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/files/27 |title=Zircotec cools hot cars |accessdate= 2013-04-25}}</ref>
Zircotec announced an investment of £2.5m into a new 20,000 square foot premises in Abingdon which was completed by October 2019. This offers a ten-fold increase in capacity with a significant increase in workforce<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/zircotec-increase-capacity-ten-fold// |title=Zircotec moves into £2m premises |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>


In March 2021, the release of a new heatshield product – ZircoFlex SHIELD – was announced.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/new-heat-shield-technology-zircoflex-shield/ |title=Zircotec moves into £2m premises |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>
The range contains fifteen individual coatings - one white coating (Performance White), and fourteen coloured coatings (Performance Colours). The Performance Colours coatings are identical to the Performance White coating, but consist of an additional coloured top layer - offering a more robust and maintainable finish. The Performance White coating is suitable for temperatures of up to 1400&nbsp;°C, whilst Performance Colours can be used up to 900&nbsp;°C. The current colours on offer are as follows: Graphite, Solid Black, Metallic Black, Alaskan Blue, Warm Grey, Antique Silver, Sterling Silver, Chilled Red, Yellow Gold, Copper, Aqua Green, Fern Green, Aged Brown and Ultra Blue.


In June 2022, Zircotec procured a further 10,000 square foot building which will be dedicated to producing technology for low and zero carbon vehicles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Technology business expands to meet rising electric cars demand |url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/20237753.abingdon-technology-business-expands-meet-electric-cars-demand/ |access-date= 2022-07-05}}</ref>
===Primary Range===
Zircotec's primary range was developed as a lower cost derivative of its Thermohold coatings. Suitable up to 900&nbsp;°C, it offers less thermal performance to the Performance Range with a 25% reduction in exhaust system temperatures. Currently Zircotec only offers a black finish, but there are plans to make more colours available.


===Zircoflex===
==In motorsports==
Zircotec works closely with [[motorsport]] teams from various categories, including [[Formula One]], the [[British Touring Car Championship]] and [[NASCAR]].
Zircoflex is a flexible aluminium-backed ceramic heat-shield, claimed to be the first-ever such product. Based on a derivative of Zircotec's Thermohold coating, close-packed ceramic platelets are plasma-sprayed onto an aluminium foil. This allows tight folding of the heat-shield through 180°, whilst still maintaining thermal protection.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.gizmag.com/zircoflex-flexible-heat-shield/12249/ |title=Gizmag - Flexible Ceramic Heatshield |accessdate= 2013-04-26}}</ref>
Since 2018, Zircotec has maintained a technical partnership with [[Power Maxed Racing]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/category/pmr/ |title=Power Maxed Racing |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>


==OEM providers==
Zircoflex is 0.25mm thick and lightweight at 460g/m<sup>2</sup>. The heat-shield is useful at temperatures up to 500&nbsp;°C.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://ceramics.org/ceramictechtoday/tag/zircoflex/ |title=The American Ceramic Society - Zircoflex |accessdate= 2013-04-26|format= |work= }}</ref>
* [[Aston Martin Valkyrie]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/zircotec-has-aston-martins-back/ |title=Aston Martin Valkyrie |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>

* [[Aston Martin One-77]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/a-look-back-at-the-aston-martin-one-77/ |title=Aston Martin one-77 |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>
===Composite Coatings===
* [[Ducati Diavel|Ducati Diavel Diesel]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.zircotec.com/zircotec-motorcycle-exhaust-ceramic-coating/ |title=Ducati Diavel Diesel |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>
Zircotec offers a plasma-sprayed ceramic coating specifically for composite materials. Commonly used on [[Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer|CFRP]], this coating protects against heat, fire and abrasion.
* [[Lamborghini Murciélago]]

* [[Koenigsegg CCX]]
===Ceramic Fabrications===
* [[Pagani Zonda]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://zircotec.com/products/|title=Zircotec Products|access-date=2024-04-18}}</ref>
Zircotec manufactures a number of different industrial ceramic components. Some examples are as follows:
* [[New Holland Agriculture|New Holland]] Low Carbon Gas Tractor<ref>{{Cite web|title=» CNH – LoCT|url=https://www.apcuk.co.uk/funded-projects/cnh-loct/|access-date=2021-11-02|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.apcuk.co.uk/news/new-holland-unveils-the-first-pre-development-of-its-low-carbon-tractor-at-low-carbon-vehicle-event-2019/|title=Low carbon gas tractor |access-date= 2021-05-16}}</ref>
* Susceptor tubes for optical fibre production;
* Ceramic furnace components, such as ceramic tubes;
* Ceramic filters;
* High temperature ceramic crucibles;
* Ceramic components for electrical and thermal insulation.

==Awards and nominations==
* 2013: Runner-up in the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders Award for Automotive Innovation 2013
* 2013: Finalist for the BEEA 2013 Material Application of the Year Award
* October 2010: Winner of the 2010 Plastics Industry Best Technology Application of the Year Award for Zircotec's protective ceramic coating for composites.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/newsitem/3/15 |title= Protective ceramic coating for carbon composites wins Technology Award at Plastic Industry Awards|accessdate= 2013-04-23|format= |work= }}</ref>
* 2009: Finalist for the 2009 [[British Engineering Excellence Awards|British Engineering Excellence]] Small Company of the Year Award.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/index.php |title=Zircotec homepage |accessdate= 2013-04-24|format= |work= }}</ref>
* 2009: Runner up in the 2009 Oxfordshire Innovation Enterprise Awards.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/index.php |title=Zircotec homepage |accessdate= 2013-04-24|format= |work= }}</ref>
* 2008: Commendation received from the 2008 Manufacturer Awards.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/index.php |title=Zircotec homepage |accessdate= 2013-04-24|format= |work= }}</ref>
* January 2008: Nomination for the 2008 MIA Business Excellence Award for Export Achievement.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.the-mia.com/Protective-ceramic-coating-for-carbon-composites-wins-Technology-Award-at-Plastic-Industry-Awards |title= The MIA Awards - Zircotec nominated for Business Excellence|accessdate= 2013-04-23|format= |work= }}</ref>


== References ==
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* [http://www.zircotec.com/ zircotec.com]
* [https://www.bestnetreview.com/best-ceramic-coating-for-cars/ Ceramic Coating for Cars]


[[Category:Chemical companies of England]]
[[Category:Chemical companies of England]]
[[Category:Manufacturing companies of England]]
[[Category:Companies based in Oxfordshire]]
[[Category:Coatings]]
[[Category:Coatings]]
[[Category:English brands]]
[[Category:English brands]]

Latest revision as of 20:17, 18 April 2024

Zircotec Ltd.
Company typeLimited company
Industry
  • Automotive Coatings
  • Industrial Coatings
Headquarters
Abingdon
,
England
Products
  • Thermohold Coatings
  • Zircoflex
Number of employees
50–100

Zircotec is a high temperature coating and heat barrier manufacturer, based in Abingdon near Oxford, England. It uses plasma-sprayed ceramic materials to provide thermal and abrasive resistance to components – with a focus on automotive exhaust systems. Its best-known products include coloured thermal barrier coatings and Zircoflex – a flexible ceramic heatshield.

History

[edit]
Zircotec plasma-spray process

1960–2003: Development at UKAEA

[edit]

Zircotec began life as part of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, where its high temperature coatings and heat barrier processes were originally developed for the nuclear industry. It was based at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment near Harwell, Oxfordshire. At the time, this was the main centre for atomic energy research and development in the United Kingdom.[1]

In 1994, Zircotec's thermal barrier coatings were first used in a motorsport application. These coatings were applied to the exhaust systems of Subaru rally cars to lower in-cabin temperatures. After initial success, these high temperature coatings were then used on a variety of other vehicles, including Formula One cars and trucks.

2003–2009: Foundation of Zircotec

[edit]

Zircotec was bought by a venture capital fund in 2003. Subsequently, Zircotec shifted its focus from the nuclear industry, towards general industry and automotive applications. As a result, Zircotec developed Thermohold coatings for high performance automotive and classic car applications. Their main Thermohold coating was called Performance White, a white dual-layer plasma-sprayed ceramic.

In July 2007, Terry Graham was appointed as the new managing director.[2] Later that year, high performance sportscar manufacturer Koenigsegg announced it would be using Zircotec coatings on its CCX supercar.[3] Additionally, in October, Zircotec became involved in the world land speed steam-car record attempt, supplying its coatings for thermal protection of sensitive components – this attempt was successful a year later.[4][5]

In June 2008, Zircotec developed a plasma-sprayed ceramic coating specifically for composite materials. Predominantly aimed at motorsport and high-performance car applications, coated composites could now function at temperatures above their melting points.[6]

In September 2008, Zircotec launched its Performance Colours range. This range is based on Zircotec's Performance White coating, but has an additional coloured finish, offering a more robust and maintainable finish. Zircotec initially released thirteen different colours, with plans to increase this variety over the next few years.

2009–2019: Management buyout

[edit]

Zircotec's directors completed a management buyout early in 2009.[7]

In 2010, the company's headquarters were relocated to the nearby town of Abingdon, Oxfordshire. The move was completed to provide increased production capacity and to accommodate future business growth.[8]

In 2011, Zircotec developed the world's first flexible ceramic heatshield, named Zircoflex.[citation needed]

In July 2019, Zircotec experienced a fire at its premises and temporarily relocated to a nearby facility.[9]

2019–present: Expansion

[edit]

Zircotec announced an investment of £2.5m into a new 20,000 square foot premises in Abingdon which was completed by October 2019. This offers a ten-fold increase in capacity with a significant increase in workforce[10]

In March 2021, the release of a new heatshield product – ZircoFlex SHIELD – was announced.[11]

In June 2022, Zircotec procured a further 10,000 square foot building which will be dedicated to producing technology for low and zero carbon vehicles.[12]

In motorsports

[edit]

Zircotec works closely with motorsport teams from various categories, including Formula One, the British Touring Car Championship and NASCAR. Since 2018, Zircotec has maintained a technical partnership with Power Maxed Racing.[13]

OEM providers

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "About Zircotec". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
  2. ^ "New Zircotec Managing Director". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
  3. ^ "Autopresspoint.com news". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
  4. ^ "Ceramic Industry News - Zircotec to supply coatings for British steam car challenge". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
  5. ^ "BBC News - UK team breaks steam car record". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
  6. ^ "Ceramic car coating (or glass coating) – 10 myths".
  7. ^ "Easier.com news – Zircotec completes management buy out". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
  8. ^ "Zircotec acquires new production space at Abingdon, Oxfordshire". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
  9. ^ "Zircotec moves into £2m premises". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  10. ^ "Zircotec moves into £2m premises". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  11. ^ "Zircotec moves into £2m premises". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  12. ^ "Technology business expands to meet rising electric cars demand". Retrieved 2022-07-05.
  13. ^ "Power Maxed Racing". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  14. ^ "Aston Martin Valkyrie". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  15. ^ "Aston Martin one-77". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  16. ^ "Ducati Diavel Diesel". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
  17. ^ "Zircotec Products". Retrieved 2024-04-18.
  18. ^ "» CNH – LoCT". Retrieved 2021-11-02.
  19. ^ "Low carbon gas tractor". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Zircotec&oldid=1219612066"