The newly established Surface Treatment Plant at SLAF Station Palavi was declared opened by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana (20 June 2023), marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of the engineering capabilities of the SLAF. The establishment of the Aircraft Overhaul Wing at SLAF Base Katunayake in 2015 was undertaken with the intention of providing a timely solution for the comprehensive overhaul of Chinese origin aircraft.
The Surface Treatment Plant, constructed as a mandatory workshop for the Wing, plays a crucial role in facilitating the surface finishing of spares during the overhaul process of F-7BS/GS and K-8 aircraft. The design of this workshop was executed by the expert team from China National Aero – Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC), while the construction and equipment installation were carried out under their supervision.
The Surface Treatment Plant encompasses a wide range of surface finishing capabilities, adhering to the aviation standards. These capabilities include various types of surface finishing methods such as Electroplating (including Chrome Plating, Copper Plating, Cadmium Plating, Nickel Plating, Bright Nickel Plating, Tin Plating, Zinc Plating, Silver Plating, Black Zinc Plating), Anodizing (comprising Passivation of stainless steel, Chemical conductive anodizing, Sulphuric acid Anodizing, Chemical oxidation of aluminium and its alloy, Chrome acid Anodizing, Hard Anodizing) and Chemical Treatment (encompassing Phosphating, Bluing and Passivation of copper).
The successful implementation of this state-of-the-art Surface Treatment Plant not only enhances the engineering capabilities of the SLAF but also supports as a valuable resource for sister services and external organizations. The facility can be extended to cater the surface treatment needs of organizations such as the Port Authority, Sri Lankan Air Lines and other relevant entities.
The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, members of the Air Force Board of Management, Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Overhaul Wing at SLAF Base Katunayake, as well as representatives from the China National Aero – Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC), officers and cross-section of airmen.