Microstructure and Wear Properties Analysis of TiAlN Film Deposited on Cam Profile Using Ion Sputtering

Abstract

In this study ion beam sputtering deposition was used as a new surface formation technology for strengthening cam surface during the manufacturing process of indexing cam mechanism. Phase exchanging deformation can be avoided in this manufacturing process. Compared to surface quenching processes, the shape accuracy and dimension accuracy can be improved using this method. The microstructure and properties of TiAlN composite film deposited on the profile surface of a cam (made of AISI 1045 steel) by ion beam sputtering deposition were discussed. The microstructural characterizations were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It is shown that the fundamental Bragg peak of {111} in TiAlN coatings increased with a bias voltage reduction. The grain size is about 1 μm. The friction coefficient was tested by a rotating wear tester at different loads and speeds. The minimum friction coefficient can be achieved at 0.187.

KEY WORDS:

• Cam Profile
• TiAlN Film
• Ion Sputtering Deposition
• Microstructure
• Finite Element Analysis

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. U1134101) and the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (ZR2011EMM003).

Review led by Richard Neu