May 28 2010
Use of heat resistant ceramics allows Lamborghini to increase carbon composite content and improve vehicle presentation.
The new lightweight Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the latest Lamborghini to use Zircotec’s advanced ceramic heat resistant coatings on its tailpipe assemblies. Using a Diamond Black ceramic to keep heat inside the exhaust, allows Lamborghini to adopt more lightweight composite bodywork that contributes to the 70kg weight saving.
Developed specifically for Lamborghini, the Diamond Black ceramic is applied to the exhaust at temperatures over 12,000°C using plasma spraying. This process ensures the ceramic is extremely durable, offering an aesthetically-pleasing finish that will outlast paint or untreated metals. “Zircotec’s technology not only protects sensitive composite finishes but also the exhaust itself,” says Zircotec’s sales director Peter Whyman. “Corroded or flaking exhaust finishes ruin the appearance of the rear of the car. Our technology ensures Lamborghini’s latest car will continue to look good for many years.”
The durable coating was tested to ensure that it met the rigorous requirements set down by Lamborghini. “Zircotec’s coating met the lifetime and temperature cycling tests set by Lamborghini including rapid cycling in temperature and pressure washing,” says Whyman. “The combination of our application method that effectively welds the ceramic to the exhaust,the proprietary ThermoHold® bond coat and the unique Diamond Black material make our coating viable for OEM applications."
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera follows the highly successful application of Zircotec’s thermal barriers on the Reventón and Murciélago LP640 supercars, where the use of the coating delivered both weight reductions through the removal of heatshields and added protection for the composites. For the latest Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, the coating allowed Lamborghini’s designers to specify carbon fibre for the diffuser venturi and upper element that surrounds the new quad tailpipe system. “Our zirconia-based coatings are used in F1 applications to protect delicate composite bodywork and suspension parts,” adds Whyman. “This is a good example of technology transfer from the track to the road.”