Advancing Cutting Tool Technology with Precise Coating Thickness Measurement
17th March 2025
Revolutionising Cutting Tool Technology with Precision Coatings
In industries ranging from machine building and metalworking to the extraction of ores, coal, petroleum, and gas, cutting tools play a crucial role.
These tools, typically made from sintered hard alloys, are engineered for durability, to withstand the wear associated with heavy industrial applications.
Materials such as tungsten (W) and cobalt (Co) alloys offer exceptional hardness, ensuring long-term performance.
However, as the demand for precision and efficiency grows, so does the need for coatings with enhanced cutting. The next generation of cutting tools is embracing thinner, sharper coatings to push the boundaries of performance, and precision XRF analysis is emerging as a game changer for the industry.
Advancing Cutting Tool Technology with Precise Coating Thickness Measurement
Enhancing Cutting Tool Performance with Advanced Coatings and XRF Measurement
The Importance of Coatings in Cutting Tools
A key advancement in cutting tool technology is the use of coatings like titanium carbonitride (TiCN), titanium carbide (TiC), and titanium nitride (TiN) on the cutting edges.
These coatings are applied in thin layers (5 to 15 µm) and significantly improve cutting durability.
This is particularly important for automated production lines, such as those in the automotive sector, where precision machining of parts is critical. These coatings increase the life expectancy of tools and improve the quality and consistency of the final product.
Measuring Coating Thickness with XRF
Accurate coating thickness measurement is essential for quality control. One of the most effective ways to do this is through X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) technology. XRF has long been used to measure the thickness of plated deposits and is well-suited for measuring coatings like TiCN. The process works by directing an X-ray beam onto the sample, causing the elements in the coating and base material to emit fluorescent X-rays. These X-rays are detected by a sensor, and the data is analysed to determine the coating’s composition and thickness.
In the past, XRF technology was hindered by older detectors (i.e., gas-filled proportional detectors) that limited sensitivity and resolution, often leading to noisy or unreliable measurements, especially with large or irregularly shaped samples.
Precision and Innovation in Coating Thickness Measurement
The latest generation of Bowman XRF instruments offers major improvements, overcoming the limitations of older XRF systems. The introduction of modern solid-state silicon drift detectors (SDD) provides energy resolutions that are five times better than those of traditional detectors, allowing for much more precise measurements.
The Bowman L Series XRF is particularly engineered to optimise testing for large, varied samples. The sample chamber is the largest available meaning industry professionals are no longer limited to palm-sized components and can extend the capability of this innovative technology onto whole parts up to 550 x 550 mm x 280 mm in size.
One of the standout capabilities of Bowman XRF systems is the ability to measure TiCN coating thickness to as low as a few nanometres. This level of sensitivity meets the future needs of hard alloy technologies, ensuring that manufacturers can meet the increasingly stringent requirements for coating precision.
Advancements with Bowman XRF Technology
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What Next?
For more information, or to arrange an equipment demonstration, please visit our dedicated Bowman XRF homepage or contact one of our Product Managers.
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