Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


-----

Expiry / Shelf Life of Metal Spray Powders?

We need information about the expiry / shelf life of Plasma & Flame Spray Powders.
We have gone through MSDS of various powders but were unable to find such information.
We keep stock of several powders and a bottle once opened is normally consumed in maximum 10 to 15 days.
Since the labels on the bottles and the MSDS does not mention any expiry / shelf life and since these are metallic powders we were of the opinion that the shelf life is not applicable.
The powders used are: 450NS, 443NS, 447NS, Amdry 962, 204NS, 72F-NS, 51NS, 601NS, 610NS, Amdry 718, 66F-NS, 68FNS-1, 73 NS, 63 NS, 430NS, 71F-NS, 81NS, 54NS, 52C-NS.
Thanks

Muhammad Najeeb
Plasma Shop Employee - Karachi, Pakistan
2007

---

I have got a reply from a well reputed OEM of this industry,
it says: "The question of shelf life has come up repeatedly in recent years. Shelf life of powders and wires is unlimited under normal dry storage conditions. These materials do not contain volatile, overly reactive or unstable components that could degrade over time. Shelf life can also be considered &#147 not applicable&#148 to these products. The reason for this is that these materials do not deteriorate unless they are exposed to adverse environmental conditions such as high humidity.

If stored properly, they remain usable over long periods of time. If the storage conditions are less than ideal, it will be obvious when the material is unsuitable for use. Wire could get a film of corrosion by-products. Powder could get oxidized and/or lumpy where the lumps do not readily break down and will not feed."

I am satisfied that my query has been answered.

Regards,

Muhammad Najeeb
Plasma Shop - Karachi
2007

---

Thank you, Muhammad!

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2007