Research on the Tribological Properties of a New Generation of Multi-Layer Nanostructured PVD Coatings for Increasing the Technological Lifetime of Moulds

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research focused on increasing the lifespan of HPDC moulds for casting aluminium alloys by applying duplex PVD coatings in combination with laser texturing the base material before the coatings’ deposition. This article describes the HPDC process and the degradation mechanisms of the moulds that arose during this process. The PVD nanostructured coatings utilised, the methods of their deposition, and the evaluation of their wear resistance are defined in this paper. The surface texturing process is described alongside the description of the analysis of the wear of the functional parts of the mould after decommissioning, which was carried out by visual inspection and optical and light microscopy. Three types of PVD duplex coatings were analysed during our study. The coatings were deposited using the LARC technology method (lateral rotating cathode). Subsequently, the procedure of laser texturing in the form of dimple textures using a laser was proposed. The quality of the coatings was evaluated under tribological conditions by means of the “Ball on disc” method. Based on the experimental results, recommendations for practice are established.