Improvement of Mechanical Properties of the Tool Using Nanocomposite Coatings

Abstract

The main purpose of this work is to study and evaluate the mechanical properties of nanocomposite coatings based on metal-ceramics. The research also estimates factors affecting the unique properties of these surface coatings. The study compares the physical and mechanical properties of tool material plates with a nanodispersed multilayer composite coating and analyzes the results of mechanical tests with and without these coverings. The results of the investigation show that nanocomposite coatings contribute to hardness, strength and wear resistance more than three times, while traditional hardening methods, such as thermal and chemical-thermal treatment, improve the mechanical properties much less. It can be concluded that nanocomposite coatings can increase the strength resource of the tool. Their main disadvantage is the individuality of the properties of each coating and the need for expensive equipment for their creation and application. In the use of nanocomposite coatings to increase surface properties, multicomponent coatings are of the greatest interest. As a result of this work, the nanocomposite metal coating of the nc-TiN/a-Si₃N₄ system was studied, the dependence of properties on the content of the nc-TiN and a-Si₃N₄ phases was examined, and the optimal ratio was found which ensured the highest values of hardness with the best wear resistance.