Comparison of arc evaporated Mo-based coatings versus Cr1N1 and ta-C coatings by reciprocating wear test

► The SRV tests can distinguish between different arc evaporated coatings. ► The test is sensitive to self-lubricating mechanisms in MoN-based coatings. ► Mo-O-N and Mo-Cu-N were produced first time by cathodic arc evaporation. ► Mo-O-N and Mo-Cu-N show improved self-lubrication effects compared to Mo-N. ► Droplets from cathodic arc evaporation can be used to structure a coating surface.