Ion nitriding of titanium alloys in low-pressure glow discharge

The samples of VT-6 and VT-3-1 titanium alloys were nitrided in glow discharge with hollow cathode and by conventional ion nitriding. Microhardness profiles and microstructure photos were obtained; wear tests and X-ray analysis were performed. From analysis of obtained data revealed that the ion nitriding in glow discharge with hollow cathode leads to surface mechanical characteristics improvement. Therefore, it is an effective way to better the operational properties of titanium alloys parts.