Plasma source ion implantation: Applications in metal forming

The use of ion implantation to modify surface properties has always been co nsidered too expensive in the metals industry. However, with the advent of plasma source ion implantation (PSII) the economics can be improved, especi ally when coupled with the highly desirable propel ties associated with dia mond like carbon (DLC) and many carbide and nitride coatings. The rise of P SII to grow DLC films on aluminium alloys, to form hard coatings such as va nadium carbide on forming tools and die casting tools, and to nitrogen impl ant steel forming tools and chromium plate is reported in this paper. The c ommercialisation of PSII is the goal of the Advanced Technology Program wit h over 17 participating members, including national laboratories, corporate research centres, end users, equipment manufacturers, system component sup pliers and integrators, and process providers. This multidiscipline coopera tion has resulted in more effective research and development of coatings an d commercial products, along with easier adaptation of processes and deploy ment of PSII. (C) 1999 IoM Communications Ltd.