Zircotec: Difference between revisions
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In 2003, Zircotec underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by a venture capital fund. This change in ownership marked a shift in focus from the nuclear industry to general industry and automotive applications. Zircotec developed Thermohold coatings specifically tailored for high-performance [[automotive]] and [[classic car]] applications. Notably, their flagship coating, ThermoHold Performance White, gained recognition for its dual-layer plasma-sprayed ceramic composition. |
In 2003, Zircotec underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by a venture capital fund. This change in ownership marked a shift in focus from the nuclear industry to general industry and automotive applications. Zircotec developed Thermohold coatings specifically tailored for high-performance [[automotive]] and [[classic car]] applications. Notably, their flagship coating, ThermoHold Performance White, gained recognition for its dual-layer plasma-sprayed ceramic composition. |
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Under new leadership in 2007, with Terry Graham as the managing director |
Under new leadership in 2007, with Terry Graham as the managing director,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zircotec.com/newsitem/3/5 |title= New Zircotec Managing Director|access-date= 2013-04-23}}</ref> Zircotec secured partnerships with prominent automotive manufacturers. [[Koenigsegg]], renowned for their high-performance sports cars, announced their collaboration with Zircotec in using their coatings for the [[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, Zircotec contributed its expertise to the world land speed steam-car record attempt, providing thermal protection coatings for sensitive components, which resulted in a successful record-breaking achievement 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> |
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Continuing their commitment to innovation, Zircotec developed a groundbreaking plasma-sprayed ceramic coating in 2008 specifically designed for [[Fibre-reinforced plastic|composite materials]]. This development addressed the needs of the motorsport and high-performance car sectors, enabling coated composites to withstand temperatures surpassing their melting points |
Continuing their commitment to innovation, Zircotec developed a groundbreaking plasma-sprayed ceramic coating in 2008 specifically designed for [[Fibre-reinforced plastic|composite materials]]. This development addressed the needs of the motorsport and high-performance car sectors, enabling coated composites to withstand temperatures surpassing 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> |
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In 2008, Zircotec also introduced the Performance Colours range, an extension of their popular Performance White coating. This range offered a variety of coloured finishes, providing enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Over time, the range expanded to include thirteen different colours, with plans for further diversification in the future. |
In 2008, Zircotec also introduced the Performance Colours range, an extension of their popular Performance White coating. This range offered a variety of coloured finishes, providing enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Over time, the range expanded to include thirteen different colours, with plans for further diversification in the future. |
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In 2009, Zircotec experienced a [[management buyout]] led by its directors |
In 2009, Zircotec experienced a [[management buyout]] led by its directors.<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> The following year, the company relocated its headquarters to [[Abingdon, Oxfordshire|Abingdon]], to support increased production capacity and 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> |
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Zircotec faced a setback in July 2019 when a fire occurred at its premises, prompting a temporary relocation to a nearby facility |
Zircotec faced a setback in July 2019 when a fire occurred at its premises, prompting a temporary relocation 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> However, the company rebounded swiftly and in October 2019, completed a £2.5 million investment in a new state-of-the-art 20,000 square foot facility in Abingdon. This expansion provided a ten-fold increase in capacity and bolstered the company's workforce significantly.<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> |
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Maintaining its commitment to innovation, Zircotec announced the release of a new heat shield product called ZircoFlex SHIELD in March 2021 |
Maintaining its commitment to innovation, Zircotec announced the release of a new heat shield product called ZircoFlex SHIELD in March 2021.<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> This product represents the company's ongoing efforts to develop cutting-edge solutions for thermal management challenges. |
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In June 2022, Zircotec further expanded its operations by acquiring an additional 10,000 square foot building dedicated to producing technology for low and zero carbon vehicles. This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for electric cars and showcases Zircotec's commitment to supporting clean and sustainable transportation solutions |
In June 2022, Zircotec further expanded its operations by acquiring an additional 10,000 square foot building dedicated to producing technology for low and zero carbon vehicles. This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for electric cars and showcases Zircotec's commitment to supporting clean and sustainable transportation solutions.<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> |
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Today, Zircotec continues to be at the forefront of high-temperature coatings and heat barrier technologies. With its rich history of innovation and a strong focus on research and development, the company remains a trusted partner for industries seeking advanced solutions for thermal management challenges. |
Today, Zircotec continues to be at the forefront of high-temperature coatings and heat barrier technologies. With its rich history of innovation and a strong focus on research and development, the company remains a trusted partner for industries seeking advanced solutions for thermal management challenges. |
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===Heatshield Materials=== |
===Heatshield Materials=== |
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* 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 |access-date= 2013-04-26}}</ref> |
* 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 |access-date= 2013-04-26}}</ref> Zircoflex is 0.25mm thick and lightweight at 460g/m<sup>2</sup>. The heat-shield is useful at temperatures up to 500 °C.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://ceramics.org/ceramictechtoday/tag/zircoflex/ |title=The American Ceramic Society - Zircoflex |access-date= 2013-04-26}}</ref> |
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* Zircoflex Form and Zircoflex Shield: Additional variants of Zircoflex provide flexible ceramic heat shielding solutions for specific applications. |
* Zircoflex Form and Zircoflex Shield: Additional variants of Zircoflex provide flexible ceramic heat shielding solutions for specific applications. |
Revision as of 11:16, 19 June 2023
Company type | Limited company |
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Industry |
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Headquarters | , |
Products |
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Number of employees | 50-100 |
Website | zircotec.com |
Zircotec is a high temperature coating and heat barrier manufacturer based in Abingdon near Oxford, England. It specializes in the development and production of plasma-sprayed ceramic materials for various applications, with a focus on automotive and industrial sectors. Its product range includes coatings for thermal insulation, heat protection, and anti-wear properties. Zircotec is also involved in the field of clean energy and supports the transition to low-carbon vehicles.
History
Zircotec is a British company known for its expertise in high-temperature coatings and heat barrier processes. Originally a division of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, Zircotec's history dates back to the 1960s when it was involved in the development of advanced coatings for the nuclear industry. The company's research and development activities were conducted at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment near Harwell, Oxfordshire, which served as a leading center for atomic energy research in the United Kingdom at the time [1]
In 1994, Zircotec made its entry into the motorsport industry by introducing thermal barrier coatings. These coatings were initially applied to the exhaust systems of Subaru rally cars, effectively reducing in-cabin temperatures. Building on this success, Zircotec expanded its applications to include other high-performance vehicles, such as Formula One cars and trucks.
In 2003, Zircotec underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by a venture capital fund. This change in ownership marked a shift in focus from the nuclear industry to general industry and automotive applications. Zircotec developed Thermohold coatings specifically tailored for high-performance automotive and classic car applications. Notably, their flagship coating, ThermoHold Performance White, gained recognition for its dual-layer plasma-sprayed ceramic composition.
Under new leadership in 2007, with Terry Graham as the managing director,[2] Zircotec secured partnerships with prominent automotive manufacturers. Koenigsegg, renowned for their high-performance sports cars, announced their collaboration with Zircotec in using their coatings for the CCX supercar.[3] Additionally, Zircotec contributed its expertise to the world land speed steam-car record attempt, providing thermal protection coatings for sensitive components, which resulted in a successful record-breaking achievement a year later [4][5]
Continuing their commitment to innovation, Zircotec developed a groundbreaking plasma-sprayed ceramic coating in 2008 specifically designed for composite materials. This development addressed the needs of the motorsport and high-performance car sectors, enabling coated composites to withstand temperatures surpassing their melting points.[6]
In 2008, Zircotec also introduced the Performance Colours range, an extension of their popular Performance White coating. This range offered a variety of coloured finishes, providing enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Over time, the range expanded to include thirteen different colours, with plans for further diversification in the future.
In 2009, Zircotec experienced a management buyout led by its directors.[7] The following year, the company relocated its headquarters to Abingdon, to support increased production capacity and accommodate future business growth[8]
Zircotec faced a setback in July 2019 when a fire occurred at its premises, prompting a temporary relocation to a nearby facility.[9] However, the company rebounded swiftly and in October 2019, completed a £2.5 million investment in a new state-of-the-art 20,000 square foot facility in Abingdon. This expansion provided a ten-fold increase in capacity and bolstered the company's workforce significantly.[10]
Maintaining its commitment to innovation, Zircotec announced the release of a new heat shield product called ZircoFlex SHIELD in March 2021.[11] This product represents the company's ongoing efforts to develop cutting-edge solutions for thermal management challenges.
In June 2022, Zircotec further expanded its operations by acquiring an additional 10,000 square foot building dedicated to producing technology for low and zero carbon vehicles. This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for electric cars and showcases Zircotec's commitment to supporting clean and sustainable transportation solutions.[12]
Today, Zircotec continues to be at the forefront of high-temperature coatings and heat barrier technologies. With its rich history of innovation and a strong focus on research and development, the company remains a trusted partner for industries seeking advanced solutions for thermal management challenges.
Products
Zircotec offers a range of advanced ceramic products that cater to various industries and applications.
ThermoHold - Thermal Barrier Coatings
Performance Range
Zircotec's Thermal Barrier Coatings are based on its ThermoHold coating technology. These coatings consist of a ceramic-based material, applied in two layers using plasma spraying techniques. They provide excellent thermal insulation, protection against high temperatures, and anti-wear properties. When applied to automotive exhaust systems, these coatings have demonstrated a reduction of 33% in exhaust skin temperature and 50°C in under-bonnet temperature. [13]
The Performance Range is the flagship line of Zircotec's Thermal Barrier Coatings. It includes fifteen individual coatings, comprising one white coating called Performance White and fourteen colored coatings known as Performance Colours. Performance Colours coatings have an additional colored top layer, offering enhanced durability and easier maintenance. Performance White can withstand temperatures of up to 1400 °C while Performance Colours can be used up to 900 °C The available colors include 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.
Primary Range
The Primary Range, developed as a cost-effective alternative to the Performance Range, provides thermal performance with a 25% reduction in exhaust system temperatures. Currently, Zircotec offers this range only in black, but there are plans to introduce more colour options.
Diamond Black
Zircotec's Diamond Black Coating is a high-temperature and incredibly abrasion-resistant proprietary coating technology offered by Zircotec. It is known for its durability, heat barrier properties, and exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and oxidation. The coating can be provided in a natural blue-grey finish or as a solid black or metallic black finish, offering versatility in meeting different design preferences. Diamond Black Coating finds applications in various industries, including automotive, motorsports, aerospace, and industrial sectors, where it is used to protect and enhance the performance of components exposed to elevated temperatures. [14]
Hydrogen Embrittlement
Zircotec offers innovative solutions to address the challenges related to hydrogen embrittlement in various internal hydrogen combustion environments. Hydrogen, being the smallest diatomic molecule, can easily permeate and diffuse within materials, potentially leading to embrittlement. This concern is particularly significant in environments such as engines, turbines, and other internal combustion systems where hydrogen is utilized. Zircotec's hydrogen embrittlement prevention coatings provide effective mitigation against hydrogen permeation and leakage, safeguarding components constructed from materials like aluminium and steel alloys. By applying these specialized coatings, Zircotec contributes to the safe and reliable utilization of hydrogen fuel technology in a wide range of applications, ensuring optimal performance and durability.[15]
ThermoHold for Composites
Zircotec offers a plasma-sprayed ceramic coating specifically for composite materials. Commonly used on CFRP, this coating protects against heat, fire and abrasion.
Heatshield Materials
- 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.[16] Zircoflex is 0.25mm thick and lightweight at 460g/m2. The heat-shield is useful at temperatures up to 500 °C.[17]
- Zircoflex Form and Zircoflex Shield: Additional variants of Zircoflex provide flexible ceramic heat shielding solutions for specific applications.
Ceramic Coatings and Metal Coatings
Zircotec offers a diverse range of plasma-sprayed coatings for various industries. These coatings serve different purposes such as thermal insulation, abrasion resistance, insulation, and aesthetic enhancement.
Ceramic Products
Zircotec manufactures a number of different industrial ceramic components. Some examples are as follows:
- 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.
Applications
Automotive
Thermal Management
Zircotec's ceramic coatings are employed in automotive exhaust systems, engine components, and other critical areas to improve thermal insulation, reduce under-bonnet temperatures, and enhance overall performance. By effectively managing heat, Zircotec's solutions contribute to improved efficiency, reduced thermal stress, and enhanced durability of automotive systems. The coatings are also utilized for flameproofing, particularly in and around EV battery compartments
Wear Resistance and Aesthetic Enhancement
Zircotec's coatings provide anti-wear properties, protecting automotive components from abrasion and extending their lifespan. Additionally, Zircotec offers aesthetic coatings that enhance the appearance of automotive parts, providing options for customized and attractive finishes.
Electrical Insulation
Zircotec's expertise extends to electrical insulation coatings used in automotive applications. These coatings provide effective electrical insulation, preventing electrical leakage and improving the safety and reliability of electrical components and systems within vehicles.
Aerospace
Zircotec's advanced surface coatings and heat management solutions also play a vital role in the aerospace sector. The aerospace industry relies on Zircotec's expertise to protect components from extreme temperatures, enhance thermal barrier performance, and ensure efficient heat management in critical aircraft systems. Zircotec's plasma-sprayed ceramic coatings and bespoke heat shielding solutions contribute to the safety, performance, and reliability of aerospace applications.
Industrial
In industrial sectors, Zircotec's surface coatings and thermal management solutions offer valuable benefits. These applications encompass a wide range of industries, such as oil and gas, power generation, and manufacturing. Zircotec's coatings provide effective thermal insulation, corrosion resistance, and wear protection for industrial equipment and components exposed to high temperatures, harsh environments, and demanding operational conditions.
Marine
Zircotec's heat management solutions also find application in the marine industry, where effective thermal control and corrosion resistance are crucial for the reliable operation and longevity of marine vessels. Zircotec's surface coatings and heat shielding solutions help manage heat levels, prevent corrosion, and enhance the durability and performance of marine engines, exhaust systems, and other critical components.
Notable Partnerships and Collaborations
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[18][19]
Zircotec also works with various OEMs on the following projects:
- Aston Martin Valkyrie [20]
- Aston Martin One-77[21]
- Ducati Diavel Diesel[22]
- Lamborghini Murciélago
- Koenigsegg CCX
- New Holland Low Carbon Gas Tractor[23] [24]
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.[25]
- 2009: Finalist for the 2009 British Engineering Excellence Small Company of the Year Award.[26]
- 2009: Runner up in the 2009 Oxfordshire Innovation Enterprise Awards.[27]
- 2008: Commendation received from the 2008 Manufacturer Awards.[28]
- January 2008: Nomination for the 2008 MIA Business Excellence Award for Export Achievement.[29]
- July 2019: Shortlisted for British Engineering Excellence Award [30]
- October 2019: SME of the Year finalist [31]
- October 2021: Make UK[32] Manufacturing Awards (South). Runners up for the Innovation[33] Award and finalists of the following categories:
- SME of the Year
- Growth & Strategy Finalists.
Manufacturing Facilities
Zircotec operates advanced manufacturing facilities located near Oxford, United Kingdom, dedicated to ceramic coatings, heat management solutions and engineering services. The company has recently made substantial investments to expand its production capacity, resulting in a significant ten-fold increase. These modern facilities house a range of plasma spray booths, including multiple robotically controlled automatic plasma spray systems.
These offerings cater to various industries, including automotive, motorsports, electric and hybrid vehicles, oil and gas, marine, power generation, and aerospace sectors.[34]
See Also
Thermal barrier coating Thermal spraying
References
- ^ "About Zircotec". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "New Zircotec Managing Director". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "Autopresspoint.com news". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
- ^ "Ceramic Industry News - Zircotec to supply coatings for British steam car challenge". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "BBC News - UK team breaks steam car record". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
- ^ "Ceramic car coating (or glass coating) – 10 myths".
- ^ "Easier.com news - Zircotec completes management buy out". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "Zircotec acquires new production space at Abingdon, Oxfordshire". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "Zircotec moves into £2m premises". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Zircotec moves into £2m premises". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Zircotec moves into £2m premises". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Technology business expands to meet rising electric cars demand". Retrieved 2022-07-05.
- ^ "Zircotec cools hot cars". Retrieved 2013-04-25.
- ^ "Lamborghini diamond black". Retrieved 2023-06-17.
- ^ "h2 coating". Retrieved 2023-06-17.
- ^ "Gizmag - Flexible Ceramic Heatshield". Retrieved 2013-04-26.
- ^ "The American Ceramic Society - Zircoflex". Retrieved 2013-04-26.
- ^ "Power Maxed Racing". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ https://zircotec.com/motorsport/resources/news/carstore-pmr-laucnh-2023-campaign-at-brands-hatch/. Retrieved 2023-05-16.
{{cite web}}
: Missing or empty|title=
(help) - ^ "Aston Martin Valkyrie". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Aston Martin one-77". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Ducati Diavel Diesel". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "» CNH – LoCT". Retrieved 2021-11-02.
- ^ "Low carbon gas tractor". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Protective ceramic coating for carbon composites wins Technology Award at Plastic Industry Awards". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "Zircotec homepage". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
- ^ "Zircotec homepage". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
- ^ "Zircotec homepage". Retrieved 2013-04-24.
- ^ "The MIA Awards - Zircotec nominated for Business Excellence". Retrieved 2013-04-23.
- ^ "British Engineering Excellence Award". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "SME of the year finalist". Retrieved 2021-05-16.
- ^ "Make UK is the new name for EEF". www.makeuk.org. Retrieved 2021-11-02.
- ^ "South Winners 2021". www.makeuk.org. Retrieved 2021-11-02.
- ^ "South Winners 2021". Retrieved 2023-06-17.