Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Coatings: Sub-Micron Hardness for Master Key Pins
Engineering Overview: Engineering breakdown of Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) thin-film coatings on stainless steel lock pins, providing 3000 HV hardness and 0.05 friction.
Technical & Engineering Specifications
| Hardness | 3000 - 3500 HV Diamond-Equivalent Hardness |
|---|---|
| Application | Commercial Master Key Split Wafers & High-Cycle Pins |
| Film Thickness | 1.0 to 2.0 um |
| Coating Technology | Plasma-Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition (PACVD DLC) |
| Friction Coefficient | 0.05 Ultra-Low Friction |
Sub-Micron Carbon Nanotechnology
In high-frequency commercial master key cylinders operating over 1,000,000 cycles, pin wear alters bitting depths. Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating deposits a diamond-bonded carbon layer (1–2 μm).
Nanomechanical Properties
- Vickers Hardness: 3000 to 3500 HV (sp3 diamond carbon matrix).
- Friction Coefficient: $\mu = 0.05$ (Ultra-Low Dry Friction).
- Zero Wear: Prevents master split wafer erosion over decades of use.
Frequently Asked Engineering & Selection Questions
Q1: Why are master key pins coated with Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC)?
DLC provides 3000+ HV diamond hardness and self-lubricating 0.05 friction, preventing pin wear from altering master key combinations.