In a momentous occasion, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, the Commander of the Air Force, recently declared open the newly established Surface Treatment Plant at SLAF Station Palavi. This inauguration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the engineering capabilities of the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF).
The establishment of the Aircraft Overhaul Wing at SLAF Base Katunayake in 2015 aimed to address the comprehensive overhaul needs of Chinese origin aircraft. As an integral part of this wing, the Surface Treatment Plant plays a vital role in facilitating the surface finishing of spares during the overhaul process for F-7BS/GS and K-8 aircraft.
The design of this cutting-edge workshop was executed by a team of experts from the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC). Under their supervision, the construction and installation of equipment were carried out, ensuring adherence to aviation standards and quality.
The Surface Treatment Plant boasts a wide range of surface finishing capabilities, encompassing various methods such as Electroplating (including Chrome Plating, Copper Plating, Cadmium Plating, Nickel Plating, Bright Nickel Plating, Tin Plating, Zinc Plating, Silver Plating, and Black Zinc Plating), Anodizing (including Passivation of stainless steel, Chemical conductive anodizing, Sulphuric acid Anodizing, Chemical oxidation of aluminium and its alloy, Chrome acid Anodizing, and Hard Anodizing), and Chemical Treatment (including Phosphating, Bluing, and Passivation of copper).
The successful implementation of this state-of-the-art Surface Treatment Plant not only elevates the engineering capabilities of the SLAF but also positions it as a valuable resource for sister services and external organizations. The facility has the potential to cater to the surface treatment needs of entities such as the Port Authority, Sri Lankan Airlines, and other relevant organizations.
The inauguration of the Surface Treatment Plant reflects the SLAF’s commitment to advancing its engineering capabilities, ensuring the efficient maintenance and overhaul of aircraft. This development signifies a significant step forward in the Sri Lanka Air Force’s ongoing efforts to enhance its operational readiness and contribute to the nation’s defense.
