TiAlN/AlCrSiN multilayer coatings were prepared by arc ion plating. The implements of various thickness ratio (0, 0.89, 1.04, 1.14 and 1.49) of TiAlN/AlCrSiN on microstructure, mechanical properties and thermal stability of TiAlN/AlCrSiN multilayer coatings were investigated. The AlCrSiN single coating without TiAlN inserted layer exhibits a mixed-phase structure of c-AlN and c-CrN, while TiAlN/AlCrSiN multilayer coatings show a single-phase cubic structure. As the thickness ratio of TiAlN/AlCrSiN increases, the critical load of multilayer coating gradually increases up to 99 N, the hardness decreases and the thermal stability improved. The TiAlN/AlCrSiN multilayer coating with a high thickness ratio of 1.49 was able to maintain a single (200) preferred c-TiAlN/AlCrN solid solution phase structure after annealing at 800°C in Ar for 2 h. The obtained single-phase cubic structure of AlCrSiN at room temperature and the improved thermal stability properties can be explained by the template effect of TiAlN on the AlCrSiN.
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