Tribological performance of the gradient composite TiAlSiN coating with various friction pairs

The gradient composite TiAlSiN coatings were prepared by the cathodic arc ion technology. The tribological properties of TiAlSiN coating were investigated by the ball on disc tribological test in the humid atmosphere against various friction pairs. The results show that the TiAlSiN coating exhibited excellent mechanical properties. The corresponding wear mechanism varied with different friction pair under loads (2 N, 15 N, 25 N). The wear mechanisms of the coatings against stainless steel ball and ZrO2 ball were the adhesive wear and the abrasive wear, respectively. The wear rate and the friction coefficient of coating against Si3N4 ball were significantly decreased due to the generation of SiO2•nH2O layer. However, the SiO2•nH2O layer was weakened with the increasing of the load. Results show that the tribological properties of TiAlSiN coating are affected by the material of friction pairs. Lubrication film can be formed in a humid environment to improve the tribological properties of the coating.