Performance Coatings offers high-heat ceramic coatings capable of withstanding exhaust gas temperatures of 1300° F in our Chromex finish and over 2000° F in our satin finishes. These coatings possess excellent thermal barrier characteristics, providing a dramatic reduction in radiated heat. This means reduced under-hood temperatures, accelerated exhaust gas velocity, and a longer life expectancy for the entire exhaust system, not to mention their chemical and corrosion resistance.
All pieces are first sandblasted with garnet and walnut shell media inside and out to ensure the removal of any foreign matter that could impede proper application, and then re-blasted with aluminum oxide to give the surface the perfect tooth for the coating to adhere. All pieces are then coated inside and out to seal in the metal, protecting them from rust and corrosion, and giving them the best possible performance properties.
Chromex 1300 Degrees
The very popular appearance of highly polished aluminum. The only choice for show vehicles, street rods, off-road vehicles, ATVs, and all marine applications.
Satin Fresh Blast 2000 Degrees
With the appearance and feel of freshly sandblasted metal, this coating is ideal for a clean, "Fresh" look. Also available in a semi-smooth finish we call Shiny Aluminum. Same color, different surface finish.
Satin Tungsten Gray 2000 Degrees
NEW! Designed to replicate brand new, stock cast iron exhaust manifolds. A dark gray or brown look. Great for hiding casting flaws and pitting.
Glacier Black 2000 Degrees
NEW! Very dark, smooth, and 15% gloss. Classy, clean look almost replicates porcelain. Very popular on manifolds, headers, and especially motorcycle exhaust.
Satin Black 2000 Degrees
A very stealthy, flat black look. Popular on motorcycle exhausts and turbo applications. Looks great on stock exhaust manifolds too.
Satin Titanium 2000 Degrees
A medium gray with a hint of gold or brown, almost a tan color. Designed to look like bare titanium. A favorite with motorcyclists.
Satin Gray Ice 2000 Degrees
A rich, dark gray with the hint of metal flake and a glossy finish. Looks great on everything!
Satin Gray 2000 Degrees
A great choice for stock exhaust manifolds. Dark gray with a blue. Makes any cast iron part look new, and stay that way!
CHROMEX™
The most popular kind of coating on the market today. This type of coating (metallic ceramic) is used by more companies and manufacturers than any other material. It is extremely popular on exhaust systems, where the high luster finish provides a very attractive, durable surface. The high-temperature characteristics of ceramics have been combined with metallic frits to create a coating that can withstand metal temperatures in excess of 1300 degrees F and provides 5000 hours salt spray protection.
A truly unique coating that is based on a water or solvent system may be applied to a variety of surfaces and metals, such as exhaust system components, brackets, valve covers, hinges, grills, suspension parts or any metal part that can withstand the 500 degrees F cure temperatures. Polishes to a high luster, stainless or chrome appearance that will not rust. Especially effective as a hard protective coating for aluminum parts.
Ceramic Header Coatings
The most advanced exhaust system coating available. It is a very durable ceramic reinforced coating available in a variety of colors. When properly applied, it becomes the most effective thermal barrier coating available, increasing performance while extending component life, and has been tested to over 2000 degrees F without lifting, cracking, or flaking.
Unlike header wraps, it does not hold potentially damaging heat and moisture around the part. Rather, the surface temperatures are actually reduced, extending the life of the part. When cured, a very effective corrosion inhibiting film is formed that protects the part against oxidation and imparts excellent chemical resistance that further extends part life and enhances appearance.
Ceramic Barriers
Ceramic stands above all other thermal barrier coatings currently being used in combustion chambers. Ceramic has characteristics shared by no other product, providing an unrivaled layer of thermal protection to piston tops, aluminum heads, stainless, Inconel, and titanium valves. Ceramic "moves" heat, reducing detonation and increasing the effective oxidation of the fuel. When "polished," it provides a highly reflective surface that further aids in improved flame travel. Unlike previous ceramic coatings, ours is not subject to cracking and flaking, which can lead to extensive engine damage. In fact, Ceramic coatings actually strengthen the coated part. The cured "Cermet" provides a cap of material that can withstand far more heat. During testing, when sufficient heat was applied to a piston to melt the aluminum, the ceramic did not melt; rather it held the softer aluminum together.
Thermal Barriers
Thermal Barrier is an excellent heat barrier and is recommended for the bottom of intake manifolds and exhaust crossovers to reduce heat transfer. It may also be applied to windage trays, crank scrapers and crankshafts for oil shedding. In certain instances, thermal barrier may be desirable on the inside of oil pans where good heat retention is desired such as at drag races, where oil in the pan may become cold while waiting in staging lanes.
Thermal Dispersants
Thermal dispersants create a chemical and corrosion resistant film that increases the ability of a coated part to radiate heat. TDC provides for more even distribution of heat over the coated surface and moves it rapidly away. TDC is blended with lubricating agents which aid in keeping a coated part clean. Dirt and debris cannot get a good grip and become easier to clean off. The appearance of coated parts depends on the surface texture; the coating will show a semi-gloss appearance on machined surfaces and a satin appearance on rough textures. Both finishes are very eye appealing.
Dry-Film Lubricants
Dry-Film Coating is a moly-based lubricant capable of providing lubrication at levels as high as 350,000 psi. The lubrication aids in preventing scuffing and galling, increasing part life. It also reduces friction, freeing more useable power. This lubricant provides extra protection by preventing damage from oil film failure. Dry-Film Coating is actually impregnated into the metal surface so no dimensional changes are realized. In addition to lubrication, dry-film lubricants also help distribute heat, so less metal fatigue is caused reducing the chance of part failure.
Where Else Can I Use These Coatings?
Our coatings are used as decorative finishes as well as functional coatings. If you're looking for that polished aluminum look on steel and other metal parts, try using our Chromex™.
Warranty
Performance Coatings warranties this process for a period of 3 years, from the original date of purchase, against rust and corrosion. Warranty does not cover exceeding stated temperature limits, chemical damage, or physical damage to the coatings. This does not include freight, strip charges, costs incurred during downtime, removal or any replacement costs. Failure to properly install and maintain product will void all warranties. All warranty claims must be returned to Performance Coatings for inspection, along with a copy of the original invoice.
Other Accessories
Many other accessories such as rear-end housings, hood hinges and springs, shock towers, pulleys, brackets, oil pans, timing covers, and many other parts can be coated with Chromex™ for the polished aluminum look or any of our other coatings for a durable and attractive finish.