a method for applying a coating by a cathodic is provided . the method includes the steps of : a ) providing a cathodic arc coater that includes a power source and utilizes a disk - shaped cathode , the cathode having an evaporative surface extending between a first end surface and a second end surface , wherein the evaporative surface has an area ; b ) determining a maximum acceptable power density for the evaporative surface ; and c ) applying a magnitude of electrical current from the power source to the cathode , wherein the electrical current magnitude divided by the area is equal to or less than the maximum acceptable power density for the evaporative surface .