Effect of oxidation on the wear behavior of a ZrN coating

Abstract

In the present study tribological performance of ZrN coatings deposited on hardened AISI D(2) quality cold work tool steel by arc-Physical Vapor Deposition technique has been examined in as-deposited and oxidized conditions. ZrN coatings were oxidized at 400 T for various times up to 12 h. Reciprocating wear tests carried out by rubbing A(2)O(3) balls on the coatings, revealed significant improvement in wear resistance of ZrN coating upon oxidation. Oxidation treatment at 400 degreesC for 12 h yielded seven times higher wear resistance than as-deposited ZrN coating, beside significant reduction in the wear of counterface (Al(2)O(3) ball).