Hard lubricating coatings for cutting and forming tools and mechanical components

Two new coatings based on graphite and MoS2 have been developed. They combi ne low friction with high hardness, high load capacity and exceptionally lo w wear. Both coatings act as solid lubricants, providing protection for bot h the coated surface and any opposing uncoated surface. The coatings are fi nding application in improving the general performance of cutting and formi ng tools and also make possible high-speed machining. The graphite-based co atings have exceptional wear properties under water or oil and results from wear tests under a wide range of conditions are given. A number of practic al applications are given, including the protection of artificial hip joint s. The advantages offered by the use of such coatings for many mechanical c omponents are demonstrated. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.