TiCN | Rose Coating

HTN

MICROHARDNESS
2200 HV

COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION
0.40 – 0.65

OXIDATION TEMPERATURE
600°C / 1112°F

THICKNESS
1-5 Microns (based on tool diameter)

HTN

MICROHARDNESS
2200 HV

COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION
0.40 – 0.65

OXIDATION TEMPERATURE
600°C / 1112°F

THICKNESS
1-5 Microns (based on tool diameter)

HTC

KYOCERA Hardcoating’s Titanium Carbo-Nitride (TiCN) is a versatile PVD coating known for its enhanced hardness and reduced friction compared to Titanium Nitride (TiN). With its distinctive rose or bronze hue, TiCN offers superior wear resistance and lubricity, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring high performance and aesthetic appeal.

Applications

Industrial & Manufacturing

Forming and stamping dies for non-ferrous metals and low-tensile steels
Tapping and thread-forming tools used in aluminum and brass
Punches and wear plates requiring low friction and moderate hardness
Light-duty injection mold components for soft alloy or polymer work

Medical & Dental

Surgical and dental tools for non-hardened materials where galling must be minimized
Coated guide pins or tooling for shaping soft titanium or no-lead brass components
Medical device housings where appearance and lubricity are both valued

Electronics & Electrical

Precision tooling for machining copper connectors, brass contacts, and bronze housings
Plunger tips, guides, or bushings in high-volume contact assembly
Non-conductive wear surfaces in PCB or wire processing equipment

Consumer & Decorative

Razors, knives, and scissors with rose-colored coating for aesthetic and wear appeal
Writing instruments and hardware where the finish must withstand frequent handling
Watch components, bezels, or trim accents combining durability with premium appearance

Core Benefits

Enhanced Hardness: With a microhardness of approximately 3000 HV, TiCN provides superior wear resistance, extending the lifespan of components.
Lower Coefficient of Friction: Ranging from 0.30 to 0.45, TiCN reduces friction, minimizing wear and heat generation in high-contact applications.
Moderate Thermal Stability: TiCN maintains its properties up to oxidation temperatures of 400°C (752°F), suitable for various operating conditions.
Aesthetic Appeal: The rose or bronze coloration adds a decorative finish, enhancing the visual appeal of consumer-facing products.

Coating Specs

MICROHARDNESS

3000 HV

COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION

0.30 – 0.45

OXIDATION TEMPERATURE

400°C / 752°F

THICKNESS

1-5 Microns (varies by part geometry)

Why Choose HTC Coating?

HTC TiCN stands out as a next-step coating for applications that push beyond what traditional TiN can handle. Its lower coefficient of friction, higher hardness (~3000 HV), and distinctive rose finish make it a popular choice in operations that demand both wear resistance and smooth material flow—especially in forming, stamping, and tapping of soft or sticky metals like aluminum, brass, and low carbon steels.

What makes HTC unique is its ability to combine performance and protection in environments where tool surfaces are constantly exposed to sliding, adhesion, or galling. The coating’s lubricious nature helps prevent material buildup on cutting edges or contact surfaces, improving tool life and consistency. At the same time, its aesthetic appeal gives it a role in consumer products and medical tools where appearance matters just as much as endurance.

Whether you’re shaping copper contacts, tapping threads in aluminum, or creating parts with cosmetic requirements, HTC TiCN delivers the kind of balanced performance and visual polish that sets it apart. It’s not just a coating—it’s a solution built for speed, reliability, and precision in non-ferrous and low-tensile applications.

Deposition Process

The HTC coating is applied using the Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) process. In this method, titanium is vaporized and combined with carbon and nitrogen gases in a high-vacuum environment, resulting in a thin, dense ceramic layer on the component’s surface. This process ensures excellent adhesion, uniform coverage, and minimal dimensional impact, preserving the integrity of precision components.