EN 1395-4:2007

Overview

EN 1395-4:2007 is a European Standard issued by CEN that defines the requirements for the acceptance inspection of thermal spraying equipment specifically for plasma spraying processes. It is part of the EN 1395 series that covers different types of thermal spraying techniques and associated equipment inspections. This standard ensures that plasma spraying equipment operates reliably and produces thermally sprayed coatings of consistent and reproducible quality.

This standard should be used alongside EN 1395-1, which provides general requirements and procedural explanations relevant to all types of thermal spraying equipment inspections. EN 1395-4:2007 particularly addresses technology, safety, and performance parameters for plasma spraying systems.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose
  EN 1395-4:2007 sets out minimum acceptance criteria to verify the performance and safety of plasma spraying equipment at delivery or during re-inspection, ensuring it meets agreed technical specifications to produce high-quality coatings.

• Acceptance Inspection Principles
  The standard highlights key performance factors including stable electrical power supply, correct plasma gas flow and pressure, the durability and functioning of high-voltage ignition devices, and absence of nozzle contamination during operation.

• Equipment Components Covered

  • Plasma spray nozzle design and maintenance
  • High-voltage ignition devices ensuring safe arc initiation without interference
  • Powder feed units compatible with plasma equipment ensuring uniform, adjustable powder delivery
  • Plasma gases operation with user-specified gases under safe and stable conditions

• Testing Procedures
  The standard details testing processes such as continuous 20-minute spraying runs using specified materials like aluminium oxide, verification of electrical parameters, gas flows, cooling system efficiency, as well as visual inspection of nozzle condition and material deposition.

• Classification and Tolerances
  Class A and Class B categories define acceptable deviations in voltage, current, gas flow, and other parameters. For example, voltage deviations must not exceed 3% for Class A and 12% for Class B after stabilization.

• Documentation & Reporting
  Provides a detailed template for an inspection report covering all measured parameters, testing conditions, and compliance status, ensuring traceability and standardization of inspection outcomes.

Applications

• Industrial Coating Quality Assurance
  EN 1395-4:2007 ensures plasma spraying equipment meets strict quality criteria essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing where protective, wear-resistant, and functional coatings are critical.

• Equipment Procurement and Validation
  Manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users can apply this standard during acceptance testing of new plasma spraying units or after maintenance/service to verify equipment performance before production use.

• Compliance and Safety
  By defining safety requirements and operational stability, this standard helps in mitigating risks related to high-voltage arcs, gas handling, and thermal stresses during plasma spraying operations.

• Process Optimization
  Verifying uniform powder feed rate and stable plasma parameters helps maintain coating consistency and process reproducibility, supporting optimal production efficiency.

Related Standards

• EN 1395-1: Thermal spraying – Acceptance inspection of thermal spraying equipment – Part 1: General requirements
  Provides the overarching framework and procedural guidance applicable to all parts of the EN 1395 series.

• EN 1395-7: Thermal spraying – Acceptance inspection of thermal spraying equipment – Part 7: Powder feed systems
  Supports plasma spraying acceptance inspection by defining powder feed unit tests and requirements.

• EN 657: Thermal spraying – Terminology, classification
  Offers standardized terminology and definitions critical for consistent interpretation of thermal spraying processes and equipment specifications.

• EN 1274: Thermal spraying – Powders – Composition, technical supply conditions
  Specifies requirements for powders used in plasma spraying, important for compatibility testing during acceptance inspections.

EN 1395-4:2007 is an essential standard for professionals involved in plasma spraying coating applications, providing a targeted approach to verify equipment readiness, safety, and operational excellence. Its use promotes high-quality thermal spray coatings through controlled and repeatable process conditions.