This article presents a synthesis of the main results obtained from an ongoing research program that overviews a mul-tidisciplinary approach to develop a traditional hermetic compressor (oil lubricated, with several rotating parts), into an oil-less, linear motion, innovative compressor, with improved efficiency, versatility and sustainability. This involves the development of surface engineering processes combining purpose-oriented phases applied to soft substrates to achieve high wear resistance and load support and low friction coefficient. Initially, the role of the environment (air, CO_2, R134a and R600a) on the tribological behaviour of a commercially available Si-rich multifunctional DLC coating deposited on AISI 1020 steel is illustrated. In sequence, the influence of the thickness of different layers (DLC and CrN) on sliding wear is analysed. Results are presented using an original approach (3D triboscopic maps) for two distinct configurations (increasing load and constant load). Finally, a low cost process to obtain a multifunctional coating (different nitrided layers + DLC) is described, which uses a unique thermal cycle reactor capable of coating parts in industrial scale with reduced cost.
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