Preparation of Ta/Nb coatings on the inner surface of 30 mm barrels by high-power impulse magnetron sputtering

For deposition protective coatings of Ta/Nb/Sub (Sub – steel grade 0HN3MFA) on the inner surface of a caliber 30 mm full-size barrel simulator using high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) technology, the optimal design of a magnetron evaporator and its magnetic system was developed, construction documentation was developed, and a test vacuum installation stand was manufactured on this basis. Single- and double-layer Nb and Ta films were produced on the manufactured stand with different technological parameters. Studies of their physical and mechanical properties have shown that two-layer Ta/Nb/Sub coatings with a tantalum thickness of 20 μm or more have high wear resistance. Tantalum niobium coatings have Young's modulus values closer to gun steel than galvanic chromium, which increases the resistance of these coatings to cyclic thermal and mechanical stresses and improves the protection of gun steel from the aggressive effects of powder gases. It has been found that the probability of cracking in Ta/Nb/Sub coatings is almost half less than in chromium coatings. • Protective coatings to increase the service life of 30 mm barrels. • HiPIMS technology can be used to protect the inner surface of the barrels. • Vacuum stand for producing protective coatings for 30 mm barrels. • Nb and Ta coatings are promising for reducing the wear of artillery barrels . • Comparison of Ta/Nb coating (HiPIMS technology) with electroplated Cr coating.