Mass transfer features at electric spark deposition of ceramics onto ceramics

Abstract

The possibility of electric spark modification of ceramic surface by ceramic materials has been shown. The mass transfer is found to be similar to that for metal alloy (cathode) being modified by ceramics (anode). The maximum coefficient of the mass transfer is reached when cathode’s fracture toughness is higher than anode"s one. AlN—ZrB₂ system ceramics with electric spark coating has exhibited higher wear resistance than WC—6%Co cermet. The results obtained allow the electric spark hardening of hardmetal cutting tools with ceramics to be seen as promising trend.