Hybrid TiSiN, CrC/C PVD coatings applied to cutting tools

► A new composite coating has been developed for cutting tools. ► The hardness of the TiSiN base layer is increased by increasing the silicon content. ► XRD shows that the low friction CrCx/a-C:H top layer is amorphous. ► The coating has low friction and high wear resistance when tapping aluminum silicon.