CERODEM® AlCrN

CERODEM® AlCrN

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Aluminium chromium nitride (AlCrN) coating systems are advanced surface treatment solutions that are characterised by outstanding wear and corrosion protection properties. These coatings offer high hardness and temperature resistance, making them ideal for use in extreme conditions.

AlCrN coatings significantly improve the service life and performance of tools and machine components by resisting abrasion, oxidation and chemical attack. Due to their excellent tribological properties, they are frequently used in the metalworking, aerospace and automotive industries. The versatility and reliability of AlCrN make it a preferred choice for numerous industrial applications

The CERODEM® AlCrN coating stands out from other coatings due to two special features: its droplet-free nature and the low coating temperatures during the manufacturing process.

The droplet-free nature is a decisive advantage, as droplets (small molten droplets) can impair the surface quality and performance of the coating.

By avoiding droplets, the CERODEM® AlCrN coating creates a uniform, smooth surface, which leads to improved wear resistance and smooth use of the coated tools or components.

Another benefit is the low coating temperatures used during the CERODEM® AlCrN coating manufacturing process. Lower temperatures reduce the risk of thermally induced damage or changes to the substrate material, especially in the case of sensitive materials such as hardened steel or carbide. This preserves the integrity of the base material and ensures the performance of the coated tool or component.

To summarise, the CERODEM® AlCrN coating offers a high surface quality due to its droplet-free nature and low coating temperatures, while at the same time protecting the substrate material. These properties contribute to improved performance, durability and reliability of coated tools and components in various industrial applications.

Arguments

  • Excellent wear protection at high temperatures
  • High corrosion resistance against aggressive media
  • Extends the service life of tools and components
  • Reduces maintenance and replacement costs
  • Resistant to thermal cycling
  • Protects against oxidation and chemical attack
  • Improved performance in abrasive environments
  • High hardness, especially at elevated temperatures, resulting in improved wear resistance
  • Excellent oxidation resistance up to temperatures of 1100°C
  • Improved hot hardness compared to TiAlN coatings
  • Low coating thickness of only 2-3 µm
  • Low coefficient of friction (0.35), resulting in less energy loss, heat generation and wear
  • Good adhesion to the substrate thanks to optimised residual stress profiles and improved etching processes

Specifications

Layer thickness:
1-5 µm
Hardness:
15-22GPa
Max. Max. application temperature:
900°C
Coefficient of friction vs steel:
0.3-0.45
Colour:
grey
Coating structure:
Nanocomposite
Coating temperature:
180°C
Deposition technique: PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition), magnetron sputtering
Corrosion resistance: Excellent against various chemicals and hot gas

Applications

This coating is widely used in industries that place high demands on plastic adhesion, wear protection and aesthetic qualities. The main areas of application include:

  • Tool and mould making, mould cores, tool parts
  • Machine and plant construction, machine parts
  • Metal processing industry, machine parts

Physical properties

  • High hardness
  • Low thermal conductivity
  • Stability at high temperatures
  • High oxidation resistance
  • Smooth surface

Mechanical properties

  • High compressive strength
  • Excellent abrasion resistance
  • High modulus of elasticity
  • Good flexural strength
  • High fatigue resistance

Coatable materials

  • Steel
  • Stainless steel
  • Titanium
  • Aluminium
  • Hard metals
  • Nickel alloys
  • Copper alloys
  • Bronze

Industries

  • Mould and tool making
  • Machinery industry
  • Semiconductor industry / semiconductors
  • Energy and electrical engineering
  • Plant and apparatus engineering
  • Automotive industry