(TiCr)N coatings were deposited using two cathodic vacuum are evaporat
ors fitted with chromium and titanium cathodes and with an alloyed cat
hode. Structural investigations were carried out: phases, textures, cr
ystallite sizes and lattice parameters. The influences of the bias vol
tage and nitrogen pressure on the coatings are characterized. Hardness
measurements and scratch test results are presented.