Wolfgang Tillmann

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Wolfgang Tillmann is a leading figure in the field of surface engineering and thermal spray technology, with a particular focus on enhancing the performance and longevity of industrial cutting tools. His research centers on the development and analysis of wear-resistant coatings, especially for complex three-dimensional geometries. A major contribution is his pioneering work on the robotic deposition of WC-Co (tungsten carbide-cobalt) high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) coatings onto high-speed steel (HSS) cutting tools. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective and high-performance alternative to solid cemented carbide tools, which are traditionally the standard for machining hard materials due to their superior wear resistance and high-temperature strength. By demonstrating that coated HSS tools can effectively substitute for more expensive solid carbide, Tillmann’s work has significant implications for manufacturing efficiency and cost reduction. His most-cited paper, "Wear Analysis of Thermal Spray Coatings on 3D Surfaces" (2013), with 14 citations, underscores his foundational impact in characterizing coating behavior on non-planar substrates. Through his research, Tillmann continues to advance the practical application of thermal spray coatings, bridging the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial implementation.