Effect of Layer-by-Layer Electric-Spark Alloying on the Properties of an Electrolytic Coating of the System Ni – B

The effect of layer-by-layer electric-spark alloying on the tribological parameters of a composite electrolytic coating of the system Ni – B is studied. It is shown that layer-by-layer electric-spark alloying with intermetallic TiAl and a composite AlN – ZrB₂ halves coating wear and prevents transfer of coating material to the counterbody. The reason for this is formation of a graded structure for the surface layer including zircon ZrSiO₄ and intermetallic TiAl. The latter is responsible for formation of β-tialite during tribological oxidation acting as a solid lubricant.