MATRIX PVD
COATINGS.
Matrix PVD coatings deliver superior performance for hard machining, stainless steel, hardened tool steels, and Inconel applications.
Request a QuoteMatrix PVD Coating
Matrix is North Star Coating’s proprietary PVD film engineered for hard, fast machining. It combines exceptional surface hardness with high oxidation resistance to protect cutting tools exposed to severe heat, abrasion, and mechanical loading.
North Star recommends Matrix for machining stainless steels, hardened tool steels, 4140 prehardened steel, and Inconel. In applications where AlTiN performs well, Matrix can provide an even more capable option, particularly when tools can be operated dry and at elevated cutting speeds.
Request a Quote
Matrix Coating Properties
Matrix combines extreme hardness with exceptional thermal stability for cutting tools used in aggressive machining of difficult and heat-resistant materials.
Coating Color
Bronze / Black
Produces a distinctive dark bronze-to-black finish on coated end mills, drills, reamers, inserts, and other cutting tools.
Surface Hardness
3,500 HV
Provides exceptional resistance to abrasive wear and edge deterioration during aggressive machining operations.
Oxidation Temperature
Up to 2,000°F
Maintains protective performance at the elevated temperatures generated by dry and high-speed machining.
Applications for Matrix Coatings
Matrix is engineered for cutting tools used to machine hard, abrasive, and heat-resistant materials at demanding speeds and temperatures.
Stainless Steel Machining
Protects cutting edges from heat, abrasion, and rapid wear while machining work-hardening stainless-steel alloys.
Hardened Tool Steels
Provides the hardness and thermal stability needed for machining hardened tool steels that place substantial stress on cutting edges.
4140 Prehardened Steel
Supports aggressive machining of 4140 prehard by resisting abrasive wear and protecting the tool at elevated cutting temperatures.
Inconel Machining
Helps protect tools from the concentrated heat and severe cutting forces created when machining nickel-based Inconel alloys.
Dry Machining
Matrix is designed to perform under dry cutting conditions where the coating must withstand heat without relying on coolant for temperature control.
High-Speed Machining
Supports increased cutting speeds by maintaining a hard, oxidation-resistant barrier as friction and cutting temperatures rise.
Why Choose Matrix Coating?
Matrix provides a hard, thermally stable cutting surface for machining difficult materials under dry, high-speed, and high-temperature operating conditions.
Exceptional Surface Hardness
Matrix reaches approximately 3,500 HV, creating a hard surface that resists abrasive wear and helps protect cutting edges during demanding machining operations.
High Oxidation Resistance
An oxidation temperature of approximately 2,000°F helps the coating remain stable when high cutting speeds generate substantial heat at the tool edge.
Engineered for Dry Machining
Matrix can be run dry when the application permits, allowing the coating’s thermal stability to protect the tool without depending entirely on cutting fluid.
High-Speed Cutting Performance
Its combination of hardness and heat resistance supports fast machining conditions where friction and cutting temperatures can quickly degrade less capable tool surfaces.
Difficult-Material Capability
Matrix is specifically positioned for stainless steels, hardened tool steels, 4140 prehard, and Inconel, which can generate severe heat, abrasion, and cutting forces.
Advanced Alternative to AlTiN
North Star positions Matrix as an enhanced option for many applications where AlTiN already performs well, especially hard, fast machining operations.
Let's Find the Right PVD Coating for Your Application
Whether you're coating cutting tools, dies, molds, or wear components, our team can recommend the best coating for your manufacturing process.