Open Access

S. Schirdewahn, Felix Spranger, Kai Hilgenberg, M. Merklein

• The aim of this study is to increase the tribological performance of hot stamping tools by using a laser implantation process. This technique allows the fabrication of separated, elevated and dome-shaped microfeatures on the tool surface in consequence of a localized dispersing of ceramic particles via pulsed laser radiation. Hence, the topography and material properties of the tool are modified, which influences the tribological interactions at the blank-die interface. However, an appropriate selection of ceramic particles is an essential prerequisite, in order to obtain tailored and highly wear resistant surface features. In this regard, different titanium-based hard particles (TiB2 and TiN) were laser-implanted on hot working tool specimens and subsequently tested by means of a modified pin-on-disk test regarding to their wear and friction behavior.