Comparison between the tribological aspects of AISI M-35 with and without diamond-like carbon coating

Abstract

Research aimed at enhancing cutting tools’ wear resistance made from Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coated high-speed steel has demonstrated potential applications in the metal-mechanical and medical sectors. While numerous wear testing techniques exist, many encounter challenges when dealing with thin films, primarily due to the uncertainty in distinguishing between the substrate and the coating. Therefore, this study intents to evaluate the tribological behavior of the DLC deposited on AISI M − 35 steel, aiming to predict its behavior under machining conditions through structural characterizations, chemical mapping, adhesion and micro abrasion wear tests, as well as SEM to analyze the coating thickness, indentations and wear craters. The results showed the DLC production consisting mainly of sp² and about 18 % of sp³ hybridizations. The deposition process on the substrate did not cause significant alterations in the R_a values. The adhesion quality to be classified as HF3, which falls within the acceptable limits according to the standard used. Compared to AISI M − 35 steel, DLC provided a reduction of about 71 % in micro abrasion wear and an average specific wear of 142 times lower. In this regard, it can be concluded that using DLC coating on cutting tools made from AISI M − 35 steel may be a promising alternative when seeking better wear resistance and, consequently, longer tool life.