Mechanical and Functional Properties of Cavitation Generators with PVD Functional Coatings Intended for Use in the Cavitation Environment

Abstract

The main purpose of this publication was to describe in details the correlation between microhardness and scratch test results of the tested coatings deposited by PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) method on the cavitation generators working in cavitation environment. First coating in the form of composite layer CrN+WC/C and second WC/C plate coating were deposited on two selected steels which already are used or can be use on constructional elements working in a cavitation wear environment. Steel P265GH is commonly used for pressure devices working at elevated temperatures, with a ferritic – pearlitic structure, and the other tested steel from a group of stainless steels, i.e. chromium – nickel X2CrNi18-9 (304L) steel with an austenitic structure due to its corrosion resistance, it can also be used in these conditions. The tests results obtained allow to conclude composite CrN+WC/C coating exhibit better adhesion than WC/C plate coatings deposited on the both tested constructional steels. A critical load value for the CrN+WC/C coating spans between 29 and 34N and is 35-40% higher than for the plate WC/C coating.