Finite Element Method application for modeling of PVD coatings properties

Purpose: The main subject of this paper is the computer simulation with the use of finite element method for determining the internal stresses in coatings Ti+TiN obtained in the magnetron PVD process on the sintered high-speed steel of the ASP 30 in different temperatures of 460, 500 and 540 ° C. Design/methodology/approach: Computer simulation of stresses was carried out with the help of finite element method in ANSYS environment, and the experimental values of stresses were determined basing on the X-ray diffraction patterns. Findings: The presented model meets the initial criteria, which gives ground to the assumption about its usability for determining the stresses in coatings, employing the finite element method using the ANSYS program. The computer simulation results correlate with the experimental results. Research limitations/implications: To evaluate with more details the possibility of applying these coatings tools, further computer simulation should be concentrated on the determination of other properties of the coatings for example- microhardness. Originality/value: 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. The possibility of application faster and faster calculation machines and coming into being many software make possible the creation of more precise models and more adequate ones to reality.