By combination of DC reaction magnetron sputtering with multiple arc-plating
the superhard coating is deposited onto HSS. X-ray diffraction (XRD) shows that the compound film exists in the form of hard crystalline phase. Microhardness HV of the compound film is 50.5—54.1GPa
and adhesive force to the HSS base (critical load) measured
by scratch test
to be 40—80N. It is proved that the coating has a very high wear resistance and the cutting life of the TiN coated cutting tools is great improved.