Mechanical impact test methods for hard coatings of cutting tools: a review

Abstract

Impact tests of different frequencies can be applied to simulate the cyclic fatigue load of the tool under different working conditions as well as different impact frequencies. The main objective of the present article is to review different impact test methods for hard tool coatings. In this regard, impact tests are divided into three categories, including high-frequency, medium-frequency, and low-frequency tests. In terms of the impact scale, impact tests can be divided into micro-scale and nano-scale tests. The impact tests at micro-scales and nano-scales aim to characterize the coating substrate and the coating itself, respectively. It is found that the interface properties between the coating and the substrate have a remarkable impact on the fatigue resistance of the tool coating. Finally, the design and future development of the impact test are discussed.