Abstract: A guide pin comprising a metal core and a generally smooth, non-porous insulative ceramic layer disposed on the metal core. An intermediate layer comprising titanium-carbonitride (TiCN) may be disposed on the metal core, thereby improving bonding of the ceramic layer to the guide pin assembly. In an important feature, the insulative layer is generally nonporous and has high hardness, and thus exhibits excellent wear resistance. The intermediate and insulative layers are deposited by a chemical vapor deposition process known as the “Bernex” process that results in a very hard, generally nonporous coating.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a guide pin is disclosed, which comprises machining a metal substrate core; optionally depositing an intermediate coating onto the substrate core; and depositing an insulative ceramic coating onto the intermediate coating by a chemical vapor deposition process under pressure conditions of up to about 500 torr, wherein the Rockwell C hardness of the metal core is greater than or equal to about 45, and the surface roughness values of the as-deposited coating are Ra less than or equal to about 35 microinches and Rmax less than or equal to about 250 microinches.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a guide pin is disclosed, which comprises maching a metal substrate core; and depositing an insulative ceramic coating by the Bernex chemical vapor deposition process, wherein the Rockwell C hardness of the metal core is greater than or equal to about 45, and the surface roughness value of the as-deposited coating are Ra less than or equal to about 35 microinches and Rmax less than or equal to about 250 microinches.