Correlation between nanoindentation response and wear characteristics of CrN-based coatings deposited by an Arc-PVD method

The examination of the existing relationships between nanoindentation responses and tribological properties of the nanostructured CrN, Cr(CN), and (CrTi)N coatings was the matters to be considered in this research. A cathodic arc physical vapor deposition machine was therefore implemented to apply the chosen coatings on the DIN 1.2510 tool steel substrate. Moreover, an X-ray diffraction and a field emission scanning electron microscope were utilized in order to show the features regarding microstructure and morphology of these very coatings. The mechanical and tribological behavior of the coatings was expected to be assessed with the use of a nanoindentation and pin-on-disc wear tests. According to the obtained result, the wear resistance and hardness value of the (CrTi)N coating were proved to be much better than those of the CrN and Cr(CN). Linear equations were proposed between wear rate/hardness and friction coefficient/hardness to evaluate the correlation between mechanical and tribological properties. The presence of a quadratic equation between the friction coefficient and the plastic deformation index was also discovered.