ST11181 Chromium Aluminum Sputtering Target, CrAl Target

Complete Technical Specifications

For detailed evaluation and procurement (Standard Reference: ST11181).

Technical & Application Notes

1. Engineering Coatings for Extreme Conditions

The synergy between Cr and Al in a nitride coating (CrAlN) creates a material that excels where others fail:

• Aluminum forms a dense, protective Al₂O₃ scale at high temperatures, providing exceptional oxidation resistance up to 900-1000°C, far beyond the capability of CrN.
• Chromium contributes high hardness, toughness, and adhesion, and improves the corrosion resistance of the coating.
  By adjusting the Cr/Al ratio in the target, the properties of the resulting CrAlN coating can be fine-tuned—higher Al for maximum oxidation resistance, higher Cr for higher hardness and better adhesion on some substrates.

2. The Importance of Alloy Homogeneity

A homogeneous distribution of Cr and Al in the target is non-negotiable. Inhomogeneity leads to local variations in sputter yield, causing fluctuations in film composition and compromising coating performance. SAM uses Vacuum Arc Melting or Powder Metallurgy with subsequent homogenization to achieve a uniform, single-phase or fine two-phase microstructure, ensuring consistent film deposition.

3. Application-Specific Guidance

• Dry & High-Speed Machining: CrAlN coatings (typically from Cr₅₀Al₅₀ targets) are the gold standard for machining hardened steels, cast iron, and high-temperature alloys (e.g., Inconel) due to their thermal stability and retained hardness at elevated temperatures.
• Forming & Molding Tools: Used for aluminum die-casting molds, hot forging dies, and plastic injection molds to combat wear, corrosion, and aluminum adhesion.
• Aerospace & Automotive: Applied to turbine components, piston rings, and other engine parts exposed to high heat and wear.
• Decorative Coatings: Provides a hard, durable, and often darker-colored finish (compared to TiN) for consumer goods and architectural hardware.

Quality Assurance

We guarantee compositional accuracy and homogeneity. Each batch is analyzed via Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) to verify the bulk Cr/Al ratio. Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) mapping is used to confirm the uniform elemental distribution across the target surface and cross-section, a critical factor for reactive sputtering stability.

Why Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM)

• Expertise in Reactive Sputtering Alloys: We specialize in the alloys used for advanced nitride and oxide coatings, understanding the property drivers.
• Precision Alloying Capability: We can accurately produce any Cr/Al ratio you require, from R&D samples to production quantities.
• Proven in Cutting-Edge Tooling: Our targets are used by leading tool coating companies worldwide to produce high-performance CrAlN layers.

Request More Information

Get a Formal Quote or Composition Consultation

To select the optimal CrAl target for your coating process, please provide:

1. Desired Chromium to Aluminum ratio (e.g., 50/50, 70/30 at.%).
2. Target shape and dimensions (or your coater model).
3. Intended coating type (e.g., CrAlN for cutting tools) and substrate material.