Abstract: A metallic coating on a part made from a ceramic composite is obtained from a powder obtained by mixing two powders: namely,a base powder A comprising 2 to 5% of a reactive element Ti or Zr, at least one melting element B or Si in proportions ensuring a liquidus temperature between 1000.degree. C. and 1300.degree. C. and additional metallic elements including at least 50% Ni or Ni+Co;a powder B in a weight ratio of 5 to 30%, the elements of which are chosen to impart to the part particularly desired surface properties such as anti-wear, anti-oxidation and/or anti-corrosion, and to ensure a liquidus temperature of powder B greater than that of powder A.

Abstract: A powder supply device for use in the formation of a coating by a laser beam treatment has its delivery pipe from the powder and carrier gas dispensing apparatus fitted with an expansion chamber into which the powder and gas enter via an inlet pipe carrying a powder diffuser. The expansion chamber has a conical part leading into an outlet pipe for carrying powder and gas to a discharge nozzle at a reduced rate determined by the rate of escape of gas from the expansion chamber via an exhaust pipe fitted with a flow regulator.