Microstructure and Properties of TiCN Coating Induced by High Current Pulsed Electron Beam

The TiCN coating was prepared on the surface of cemented carbide by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, and then treated by high current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB). The microstructure of TiCN coating before and after HCPEB irradiation was studied by X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the corresponding microhardness and wear resistance were analyzed. The results show that no new phase was formed after HCPEB irradiation, but the grain of the coating was refined and the stress state in the coating changed. Meanwhile, the original coarse particles disappeared, and the coating surface became flat and smooth. As the increase of irradiation pulses, the thickness of TiCN coating decreased gradually. The results of the performance tests indicated that the microhardness and the wear resistance of TiCN coating were significantly improved after HCPEB irradiation. HCPEB irradiation eliminates the coarse particles on the coating surface, promotes grain refinement, the formation of high-density crystal defects and the change of residual stress, and further improves the properties of TiCN coating.