Development of a novel diffusion system for wear-resistant boride and nitride coatings

Challenge

Wear-resistant boride coatings significantly enhance the performance of tools and high-temperature components. However, the boriding processes used to date have reached their limits in terms of process speed, diffusion depth, and cost-effectiveness. The goal of the HTPlasBor project is to develop a novel system technology that enables more efficient boron absorption while meeting the requirements of demanding high-temperature materials.

Solution

The project partners are developing an innovative high-temperature plasma boriding system that combines plasma activation, state-of-the-art high-frequency technology, and a novel reactor architecture. Fraunhofer IST is contributing its many years of expertise in plasma and process technology as well as in thermochemical heat treatment. The development is complemented by numerical simulations and digital optimization methods, which are used to specifically design and improve the system concept, process control, and reaction conditions.

Added value 

HTPlasBor lays the foundation for a new generation of thermochemical surface treatment technology. The technology promises greater diffusion depths, shorter process times, and improved cost-effectiveness in the coating of tools and high-temperature components. Applications in metal forming, aerospace, and energy and turbine technology will benefit in particular. In the future, the technology is intended for use in industrial applications.