Friction and wear properties of Cr: (Wx,N0.1) coatings deposited by magnetron sputtering

Abstract This paper discusses the friction and wear properties of Cr:(W x ,N 0.1 ) coatings with different tungsten contents. The Cr:(W x ,N 0.1 ) coatings with x being in the range of 0–0.16 were deposited using unbalanced magnetron sputtering technology. The microstructures and mechanical properties of Cr:(W x ,N 0.1 ) coatings have been characterized by SEM, TEM, X-ray diffraction (XRD), nanoindentation and adhesion techniques. The tribological properties of the coatings were investigated using an oscillating friction and wear tester under dry conditions. Indexable inserts with Cr:(W x ,N 0.1 ) coatings were applied to turning AISI 1045 steel material by a lathe. Micron-drills with Cr:(W x ,N 0.1 ) coatings were adopted in the ultra high speed (10 5  rpm) PCB through-hole drilling test. Experimental results indicate that the coating microstructure, mechanical properties and wear resistance vary according to the tungsten content. All the coatings crystallize in the BCC phase. Cr:(W 0.06 ,N 0.1 )-coated tools showed the best wear resistance in 1045 steel turning and PCB through-hole drilling tests. The service life of Cr:(W 0.06 ,N 0.1 )-coated tool is three times greater than that of an uncoated tool in PCB through-hole drilling test.