When it comes to manufacturing industrial components, porosity can be a major concern. While parts may look fine on the outside, there may be hidden porosity that will lead to problems— a pump might lose pressure, or a valve may leak if it’s not sealed. 

For this reason, it’s important to address internal porosity and its impact on common, important components using a reliable method like vacuum impregnation. This is a process that Godfrey & Wing applies regularly to real-world parts that must perform under pressure. Keep reading to learn more about porosity in industrial components and how vacuum impregnation is used to mitigate it.

Porosity Challenges in Industrial Components

Porosity is a common issue among industrial components, particularly for those created using casting or powder metal processes. In valves, it can cause internal leaks that derail the performance and safety of the system. The problems it causes can result in higher maintenance costs, increased warranty claims, and an overall lack of confidence in the component.

Vacuum impregnation permanently seals internal porosity without altering the component’s dimensions or mechanical abilities. In addition to extending the working life of components facing potential porosity concerns, vacuum impregnation is an effective way to deal with inconsistent sealing and unexplained leaks.

How Godfrey & Wing’s Vacuum Impregnation Works

The results of vacuum impregnation greatly depend on process control and experience. At Godfrey & Wing, the goal is to seal internal porosity completely and consistently so that afterwards, the component can perform as intended. Any air or gases trapped in tiny, microscopic pores are evacuated into a vacuum chamber, creating space for the sealing resin to fill them up. The resin is then drawn deep into the part, filling in the voids that allow leaks.

This sealing method supports durability and pressure resistance, providing greater assurance in sending industrial parts out to perform as promised.

Applications in Industrial Manufacturing

Vacuum impregnation works with different materials, designs, and performance requirements. Common industrial parts that benefit from vacuum impregnation include:

  • Pumps and pump housings
  • Valves and valve bodies
  • Hydraulic and pneumatic components
  • Gear housings and compressor parts
  • Industrial castings requiring pressure tightness

For manufacturers who deal in applications with challenging environments, exposure to corrosive fluids, high pressure, or the stresses of continuous operation, the benefits of the process can make a real difference over time.

Our team at Godfrey & Wing is highly experienced with this technology and how it can impact the performance of components used in industrial systems. Our vacuum impregnation processes, resin, and equipment are designed to help manufacturers achieve key goals. Through consistency, quality control, and speedy turnaround times, we help make their industrial components the absolute best they can be.

Vacuum Impregnation for Industrial Parts

If you’re dealing with porosity problems or want to proactively enhance the reliability of your parts, let’s talk. At Godfrey & Wing, our team can help you determine whether vacuum impregnation is right for your production and how it can fit into your workflows. Reach out to us today to get started.