Effect of Diamond-Like-Carbon Coating on 3D Surface Roughness

Companies that coat their products with DLC often have strict surface roughness goals. This research investigates the surface roughness properties of uncoated and DLC coated specimens in an effort to know what uncoated surface roughness is needed to obtain a certain DLC coated surface roughness. Therefore, a model describing the relationship between uncoated and DLC coated surface roughness is needed. If this relationship can be estimated, the cost of surface finishing can be minimized by avoiding any unnecessary processes. A total of 7 specimens were tested before and after coating process with a non-contact surface roughness measurement microscope. Mathematical relationships are found between the DLC coated surface roughness and uncoated surface roughness. An experimental methodology was described for applying the findings to other coating methods and materials as the mathematical relationships found in this study are specific to the coating process and materials used.