TiCrN-TiAlN-TiAlSiN-TiAlSiCN multi-layers utilized to increase tillage tools useful lifetime

Abstract

For the first time, a hard wear-resistant multi-layer of TiCrN-TiAlN-TiAlSiN-TiAlSiCN was deposited on carbon steel CK45-based tillage tools to increase their useful lifetime. The layers were deposited by using an arc-PVD method without post-annealing procedures. XRD and EDX data indicated that TiCrN, TiAlN, TiAlSiN, and TiAlSiCN formed individually and as a multi-layer of high-quality crystalline layers with mostly cubic structures. The studies on the multi-layers coating morphology, roughness and hardness gave reasonable results as a roughness of 35 nm and a hardness of 32.2 GPa. The coated sweep duck blade tillage tools were tested on the field along with a soil bin to obtain their wear behavior at different traveling distances. The draft force of all blades showed promising results. As the coated layers were worn off, their draft force increased. In comparison with single-layer coatings, the multi-layer structure demonstrated an increase in the useful lifetime of the blades.