On the wear of TiBx/TiSiyCz coatings deposited on 316L steel

Abstract Bilayer TiBx/TiSiyCz coatings were formed on AISI 316L steel substrates by dual beam ion beam assisted deposition from TiBx and TiSiyCz targets. Coated and uncoated substrates were subjected to nanoindentation, scratch and friction-wear tests. Scratch and ball-on-disc tests were conducted in non-lubricated sliding, using a diamond pin and 100Cr6 steel ball, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to examine the surfaces of coated samples, before and after tests. To investigate wear mechanisms in the coating–substrate systems, thin foils were prepared from worn areas for transmission electron microscopy observations. TiBx/TiSiyCz coatings proved to be well adherent to steel substrates. The main wear mechanism was of abrasive type. Intensive plastic deformation of steel substrate under critical loads was revealed.