Download our new whitepaper: CVD Coatings for Engineered Components

Read our new whitepaper on CVD coatings for components. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD), the oldest deposition technique, is rarely used for coating of components. A common perception is that it can be applied only for coating of cemented carbide cutting inserts and forming tools with subsequent heat treatment. Yet CVD processing temperatures are not necessarily a showstopper for coating a range of steels and other materials used for components of various machinery. This article is intended to clarify such CVD misconceptions and highlight the benefits of using CVD for surface enhancement.

CVD, a proven Technology

This technology allows the production of Ti, Zr or Cr-based coatings in the form of nitrides, carbides and carbonitrides. In addition, high quality α- and κ-alumina (aluminum oxide) films are readily obtainable by the CVD method. Modern CVD processes are highly sophisticated, employing the latest advances in instrumentation and automation. This results in robust and reliable operations with high yield rates.

It is commonly thought that thermal CVD coatings can be applied only onto substrates made out of tool steels (mostly with post coating heat-treatment) or cemented carbide. Indeed, production of such coatings is associatedwith high process temperatures, ranging from 800 to 1000°C (1470 to 1830°F). These temperatures do prohibit coating of certain materials, and mandate a new round of heat treatment after coating for other ones. PVD and PACVD coatings, deposited at lower temperatures, are free from these limitations, which makes them an easier choice for production of wear resistant films on engineered components. We would argue, however, that plenty of applications exist for which CVD would be a better choice than PVD/PACVD.

Material considerations & Wear resistance

Contrary to common belief, CVD is perfectly suitable for a few major types of steels and alloys without further heat treatment. These materials do not undergo phase transformation below or at the processing temperature.

CVD coatings are widely used for protection against wear in different applications and industries. Following below are a few examples:

Ball valve hardware (balls, seats, packing)
Nozzles for water-jet applications
Textile components (runners, travelers)
Ceramic extrusion dies for diesel particulate filter and catalytic converter manufacture

Read this and more in our white paper. There we go into much more detail on all these topics and the development and performance of CVD coatings for components. Download it today and learn more.

In addition, our experts look forward to interesting discussions with you about our CVD coatings and other coating solutions.