Friction and wear properties of Cr:(Wx,N0.1) coatings deposited by magnetron sputtering

This paper discusses the friction and wear properties of Cr:(Wx,N0.1) coatings with different tungsten contents. The Cr:(Wx,N0.1) coatings with x being in the range of 0–0.16 were deposited using unbalanced magnetron sputtering technology. The microstructures and mechanical properties of Cr:(Wx,N0.1) coatings have been characterized by SEM, TEM, X-ray diffraction (XRD), nanoindentation and adhesion techniques. The tribological properties of the coatings were investigated using an oscillating friction and wear tester under dry conditions. Indexable inserts with Cr:(Wx,N0.1) coatings were applied to turning AISI 1045 steel material by a lathe. Micron-drills with Cr:(Wx,N0.1) coatings were adopted in the ultra high speed (105 rpm) PCB through-hole drilling test. Experimental results indicate that the coating microstructure, mechanical properties and wear resistance vary according to the tungsten content. All the coatings crystallize in the BCC phase. Cr:(W0.06,N0.1)-coated tools showed the best wear resistance in 1045 steel turning and PCB through-hole drilling tests. The service life of Cr:(W0.06,N0.1)-coated tool is three times greater than that of an uncoated tool in PCB through-hole drilling test.