Deformation–wear transition map of DLC coating under cyclic impact loading

A new deformation–wear transition map of hydrogen-free amorphous carbon coating (commonly known as Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating) on tungsten high speed steel (SKH2) substrate under cyclic impact loading has been proposed to clarify the interactions of the operating parameters, deformation and wear. The study was carried out using an impact tester, under lubricated conditions over a wide range of impact cycles, and applied normal loads. SKH2 discs were coated with thin DLC films using a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) method. Tungsten (W) was used as an interlayer material. The DLC coated disc was impacted repeatedly by a chromium molybdenum steel (SCM420) pin. All impact tests were conducted at room temperature. It has been suggested that the deformation–wear transition map is an easy way to illustrate the impact wear mechanisms of DLC coating, as shown by its transition zones. Initially, the DLC coating only follows the plastic deformation of the substrate until several impact cycles. Then, a suppression of plastic deformation of the substrate is taking place due to the decreasing contact pressure with impact cycles to the yield point. Wear of the DLC coating becomes dominant when the critical limit of maximum normal impact load and impact cycles is exceeded. From experimental observations, some degradation of the DLC coating occurs within the wear zone.