ACladning

ACladning is a term used in materials engineering to describe the deliberate application of one or more functional layers onto a substrate to create a clad composite. The aim is to combine properties of the base material with those of the clad layer, such as improved wear resistance, corrosion protection, or thermal management, while maintaining overall mechanical performance.

The concept encompasses both traditional mechanical cladding methods and modern deposition techniques. Mechanical cladding includes roll bonding and explosive welding, while diffusion bonding, hot isostatic pressing, and solid-state bonding offer alternative routes. Deposition-based approaches, such as thermal spray, chemical vapor deposition, and physical vapor deposition, allow precise control over clad thickness and composition. In some contexts ACladning also refers to hybrid processes that integrate mechanical joining with subsequent surface treatment.

Typical applications include oil and gas pipelines with corrosion-resistant liners, aerospace components requiring corrosion and heat resistance, architectural cladding for weather protection, and electronics where protective layers reduce wear or control surface properties.

Origin and usage: The term ACladning does not correspond to a single standard process; it is used variably in industry literature and marketing to denote clad or coated materials that meet certain performance goals. The exact definition depends on the involved materials and process steps, and the term may be more common in niche regions or sectors.

See also: Cladding, Coatings, Surface engineering.