Comparison of the mechanical performance of cutting tools coated by either a TiCxN1 − x single-layer or a TiC/TiC0.5N0.5/TiN multilayer using the hollow cathode discharge ion plating method

► We compared the properties of cutting tools coated by TiCN and TiC/TiCN/TiN films. ► We designed a TiC/TiC0.5N0.5/TiN multilayer to further improve the performance. ► Dynamic hardness mainly affects the mechanical performance of cutting tools.