Press

Nanocomposite Coatings Enable Enhanced Gear Performance Under Extreme Contact Conditions

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Locust, NC
-
March 25, 2026

As gear systems reach performance limits, surfaceengineering is becoming critical. New test data demonstrates thatplasma-deposited nanocomposite coatings significantly enhance gear performancein high-stress applications.

Applied via low-temperature PECVD, these thin-film coatings(3–5 µm) reduce friction, improve wear resistance, and increase scuffing loadcapacity 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 scuffingtests, the coating also reduces operating temperatures and improvesload capacity at the gear interface.

For aerospace and high-performance drivetrain applications,this solution enables increased efficiency and durability withoutcomponent 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 forcritical 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 inresearch 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

Worm Gear coated in UPT's nanocomposite coating