Mechanical behavior and cutting performance of nano-multi-layer TixAl1−xN coated tools for high-speed machining of AISI D2 die steel

Nano-multi-layer TixAl1−xN coatings were successfully synthesized on WC–Co substrates by a cathodic arc ion plating (AIP). The synthesized TixAl1−xN films were revealed as nano-multi-layer consisting of nano-sized fine (Ti,Al)N crystallites by characteristics of microstructure, hardness, residual stress and oxidation resistance. The tool performances for the high-hardened AISI D2 die steel (60 HRC) were studied under high-speed cutting conditions. The reliable evaluation system for tool wear of coated tools was introduced.