Abstract
We attempt to improve the performance of cutting tools against titanium alloy by coating of titanium-boron-carbon (Ti-B-C) thin films. We have been prepared the Ti-B-C thin films on silicon substrates or tungsten carbide cutting tools by DC magnetron sputtering using boron carbide (B_4C) target and titanium target. Evaluation of mechanical properties of the films on silicon substrate was investigated before turning tests of titanium alloys. The target power for Ti was varied from 0 to 200W in the deposition process to understand the influences of titanium contents on nano-indentation hardness, frictional properties and adhesive strength of coatings. We optimized coating condition of Ti-B-C thin films in the cutting tools and turning tests were carried out against titanium alloy with coated tools. The coating provided improvements in cutting performance against titanium alloys.
