Abstract: An apparatus for applying material by cathodic arc vapor deposition to a substrate is provided which includes a vessel, apparatus for maintaining a vacuum in the vessel, a disk-shaped cathode, apparatus for selectively sustaining an arc of electrical energy between the cathode and an anode, and apparatus for driving the arc around an axially extending evaporative surface of the cathode. The apparatus for driving the arc includes a magnetic field generator attached to a ferromagnetic center piece. The magnetic field generator includes a plurality of side magnets attached to the ferromagnetic center piece, and a center magnet positioned radially inside of the side magnets. Each side magnet produces a magnetic field that permeates the cathode, and each magnetic field includes a portion that runs substantially parallel to the evaporative surface. The center magnet influences the axial position of the arc path relative to the evaporative surface.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for controlled arc coating of substrates utilizing relatively thick cathodes or targets for obtaining coatings which are free of macro-particles. The thick targets are capable of use by controlling and steering the arc in a desired path as necessary to produce coatings of the desired compositions using magnetic fields generated to provide arc path control and modulation for efficient cathode utilization.

Abstract: An acoustic emission sensor comprising a piezoelectric material that is integral with a tooling or machine element in which acoustic emissions are to be sensed.

Abstract: A high speed steel, carbide or ceramic cutting insert or tool carrying an integrally mounted sensor to permit the sensor to sense and monitor machining phenomena on the cutting insert on a continuous basis to determine whether the cutting insert is operating efficiently and effectively.

Abstract: A process for arc coating alloy films on objects using a cathode or target having the two materials from which the alloy is to be formed. An alloy nitride coating may be formed by reacting the flux of coating materials from the cathode with nitrogen. The arc is magnetically steered to move in a closed arc track. The track is positioned partially in each material of the cathode to provide a flux having the desired proportion of each material. The length of the closed arc track is defined in relation to the arc speed of travel so that the cathode materials remain molten in the arc track during operation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for vacuum arc deposition of material on a surface of an object uses a vacuum chamber accommodating the active surface of the cathode and an anode. A power supply connected to the anode and cathode establishes an electric arc. The track of the arc is controlled with a magnetic field established with a permanent magnet that is moved in a closed path relative to the cathode. A solenoid modifies the main magnetic field produced on the active surface of the cathode.