FEM modelling of internal stresses in advanced PVD coatings

Purpose: The general topic of this paper is the computer simulation with use of finite element method (FEM) for determining the internal stresses of gradient and single -layer coatings (Ti,Al)N and Ti(C,N) deposited on the sintered tool materials, including cemented carbides, cermets and Al2O3+TiC type oxide tool ceramics by cathodic arc evaporation CAE-PVD method. Design/methodology/approach: Internal stresses’ models were performed with use of finite element method in ANSYS environment. The experimental values of stresses were were calculated using the X-ray sin2^ technique. The computer simulation results were compared with the experimental results. Microhardness and adhesion as well as wear range were measured to investigate the influence of stress distribution on the mechanical and functional properties of coatings. Findings: A more advantageous distribution of stresses in gradient coatings than in respective single-layer coatings yields better mechanical properties, and, in particular, the distribution of stresses on the coating surface has the influence on microhardness, and the distribution of stresses in the contact area between the coating and substrate has the influence on the adhesion of coatings. Practical implications: Deposition of hard, thin, gradient coatings on materials surface by PVD method features one of the most intensely developed directions of improvement of the working properties of materials. Presently the computer simulation is very popular and it is based on the finite element method, which allows to better understand the interdependence between parameters of process and choosing optimal solution. Originality/value: Nowadays the computer simulation is very popular and it is based on the finite element method, which allows to better understand the interdependence between parameters of process and choosing optimal solution. Influence of gradient structure of coatings on the mechanical and functional properties were investigated with use of finite element method.