Press

Nanocomposite Coatings Enable Enhanced Gear Performance Under Extreme Contact Conditions

cadmium replacement
View PDF of this Press Release
Locust, NC
-
March 31, 2026

As gear systems reach performance limits, surface engineering is becoming critical. New test data demonstrates that plasma-deposited nanocomposite coatings significantly enhance gear performance in high-stress applications.

Applied via low-temperature PECVD, these thin-film coatings (3–5 µm) reduce friction, improve wear resistance, and increase scuffing load capacity without affecting substrate heat treatment.

Key results include:

  • Up to ~75% reduction in the coefficient of friction
  • Orders-of-magnitude improvement in wear resistance
  • Scuffing resistance exceeding 400 ksi contact stress
  • No measurable impact on tensile, fatigue, or shear properties

Validated through ASTM and ISO tribological and scuffing tests, the coating also reduces operating temperatures and improves load capacity at the gear interface.

For aerospace and high-performance drivetrain applications, this solution enables increased efficiency and durability without component redesign. Engineers seeking immediate performance gains can integratenanocomposite coatings as a final-stage, drop-in manufacturing solution.

Access the full report for detailed test data and performance benchmarks: "Technical Paper: Nanocomposite Coatings for Gears"

About UPT

United Protective Technologies is a leader inthe development and application of high-performance protective coatings for critical components. For more than two decades UPT has pushed the boundaries ofsurface engineering through the introduction of proprietary coatings thatprotect against wear, corrosion, and friction. With a strong foundation in research and development, UPT continues to provide its customers with thelatest in surface protection and performance technology.

www.upt-usa.com

704-888-5470

info@upt-usa.com

Media Contact

Brianne "Bree" Blankenship

Marketing Specialist, UPT

(336) 425-9180

bblankenship@upt-usa.com

Spur Gear coated in UPT's Nanocomposite Coating