Properties of nano-SiC/Ni composite coating on diamond surfaces

A Ni coating and nano-SiC/Ni composite coating were prepared on diamond surfaces by an electro-co-deposition method. The surface morphology of plated diamond grit and the bonding state between diamond and Fe-matrix bond were characterised by the scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The flexural strength and wear resistance performance of the Fe-matrix bonded diamond tool bits were tested. The results showed that the nano-SiC/Ni composite coating possesses a smoother, finer, and denser microstructure when compared with a pure Ni coating. Furthermore, the nano-SiC/Ni composite coating on diamond surfaces improved the flexural strength and wear resistance of Fe-matrix bonded diamond tool bits. The EDS analysis indicated that the chemical combination between diamond grits and Fe-matrix bonding was formed, thereby the mechanical properties of Fe-matrix bonded diamond tool bits were enhanced.