Comparative Tribological Behavior of TiN-, CrN-, ZrN-, and MoN -Cu Based Nanocomposite Coatings

Nanocomposite structures composed of hard and soft phases are very promising candidates for tribological applications involving both dry and lubricated sliding. This study aims to compare the wear behavior of copper doped hard nanocomposite nitride coatings under dry and lubricated sliding conditions. These nanocomposite coatings are produced in a cathodic arc-based hybrid PVD coating system and their mechanical and structural properties are fully characterized using electron microscopy and other relevant techniques. Tribological tests were performed in pin on disc and reciprocating wear test machines under dry and lubricated sliding conditions. The differences observed in the tribological behavior of nanocomposite coatings are discussed by taking into consideration the structure and mechanical properties of the coatings and the chemical character of the tribo films formed on sliding surfaces during wear testing.