Abstract
The paper describes an experimental study of thin layers obtained using the vibrating electrode method. Vibrating electrodes are used because they are effective for producing layers with high hardness and wear resistance. Before the depositions, the base material was polished with abrasive paper to remove any oxides and impurities. Furthermore, four electrodes made of Ti, TiC, WC, and stellite were used to deposit different layers on the surface of steel blades using an Elitron 22 installation. The tungsten electrode was used to improve mechanical properties, whereas the titanium electrode increased corrosion resistance. Both the substrate and the deposited layers have had their chemical composition, microstructure, and hardness analyzed. The substrate is made of medium-alloyed steel, which is commonly used to make plastic shredder blades. Following deposition, the samples were subjected to final heat treatments, including quenching and tempering. Furthermore, microhardness and microstructural analyses were conducted to assess the properties and surface morphology of the coatings.