Electro-magnetic simulation of charged particle trajectories in vacuum arc evaporation process

Coatings are widely applied to cutting tools with the benefit of extending tool life, improving cutting efficiency and part quality. Vacuum arc evaporation has been used for the deposition of the coating materials on the cutting tools. This project will investigate the vacuum arc evaporation process in order to improve the coating efficiency and the coating quality. Specifically, simulations and analyses will be performed to understand the plasma behavior under the electro-magnetic field, including the effect of the electric and magnetic field intensity and distribution on the charged particle trajectory in the coating process. Based on the simulation results, an optimum electro-magnetic field will be designed to achieve the desired plasma trajecotyr, thereforing enhancing the coating process performance.

Faculty Supervisor:

Xiaoliang Jin

Student:

Partner:

Aurora Scientific Corp

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: