Microstructure and Physical–Mechanical Properties of (TiAlSiY)N Nanostructured Coatings Under Different Energy Conditions

Nanostructured multicomponent (TiAlSiY)N coatings were fabricated by the cathodic-arc physical vapor deposition (CA-PVD). In this study, a bias potential applied to the substrate was − 200 and − 500 V, and changes in structure and properties of coatings were investigated. Samples had a single-phase state with a face-centered cubic (FCC) lattice. Small crystallites of about 7.5 nm and texture with [110] axis were observed at − 500 V. However, lower bias potential resulted in the formation of crystallites of about 41.6 nm with [111] preferred orientation. Moreover, coatings were characterized by superhard state and demonstrated low wear, high abrasion and crack resistance. The testing of the polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) cutting inserts covered with (TiAlSiY)N revealed an increase in the tool life coefficient during cutting by 1.66 times in comparison with the base tool material. Therefore, (TiAlSiY)N coating is a perspective material for application as a protective layer in cutting tools.