TD Coatings are based on ultra-dense Vanadium Carbide. They have developed a strong reputation in the metal forming and die casting industries for their high hardness and superb performance characteristics. Vanadium Carbide coatings typically have a thickness of 0.0002-0.0003" with a hardness of 3500 to 3800 HV (Vickers Hardness), well above 90 HRC. For comparison, hardened tool steel measures 500-800 HV (55-65Rc), Hard Chrome measures 600-900 HV (60-66Rc), and TiN (Titanium Nitride) is 2200-2500 HV. The high hardness and thickness of the coating provides the capacity to withstand loads developed at forming radii, while the fine nano-structure of the coating increases the shear stress capacity. Due to the low coefficient of friction (less than 0.08), flow of the material is eased and abrasive wear of the tool as well as galling (pick-up) are delayed. The TD Process is used to improve and extend the life of tooling for many industries, including sheet metal, cold forging, aluminum die casting, powdered metal, glass, textile, wire, and many others.