Microstructure analysis of DLC thin film fabricated by filtered arc ion plating method

DLC (diamond liked carbon) coating of the tungsten carbide (WC) alloy core surface for molding a glass aspheric lens improves the quality of glass lens and the molding core and is characterized by high hardness, high elasticity, abrasion resistance and chemical stability. In this study, the effect of DLC coating of a thin film by means of the filtered AIP (arc ion plating) technique was examined on Ra and shape of the coated surface. Roughness before and after DLC coating was measured and the result showed that the roughness was improved after coating as compared to before coating. It was observed that DLC coating of the WC alloy core surface for molding had an effect on improving the roughness and shape of the core surface. It is considered that this will have an effect on improving abrasion resistance and the service life of the core surface.