Performance of nano-structured multilayer PVD coating TiAlN/VN in dry high speed milling of aerospace aluminium 7010-T7651

A low-friction and wear resistant TiAlN/VN multilayer coating with TiAlN/VN bilayer thickness 3 nm has been grown by using the combined cathodic arc etching and unbalanced magnetron sputtering deposition on high speed steel tools for dry cutting of aluminium alloys. In this paper, in-lab and industrial high speed milling tests have been performed on an aerospace aluminium alloy 7010-T7651. The results show that the TiAlN/VN coated tools achieved lower cutting forces, lower metal surface roughness, and significantly longer tool lifetime by three times over the uncoated tools as a result of the low friction and eliminated tool-metal adhesion. Under the same conditions, a TiAlN based multicomponent coating TiAlCrYN also increased the tool lifetime by up to 100% despite the high cutting forces measured.