Comparative evaluation of machinability aspects for a sustainable alternative in the machining of Nimonic C-263, a Ni-based superalloy

Abstract

The primary aim was to recommend a cutting tool that would work well for the eco-friendly machining of Nimonic C-263. The most outstanding performance of the PVD-coated and CVD-coated inserts under dry conditions for sustainable machining has been compared with uncoated inserts under traditional flood cooling and minimum quantity lubrication. A comprehensive investigation was conducted utilizing uncoated, CVD, and PVD-coated commercially available carbide inserts with different cutting environments. The performance of these inserts was compared in terms of surface coarseness, cutting temperature, cutting force, and tool wear with the change of cutting speed and feed. Compared to uncoated inserts, CVD-coated ones were much less effective at lowering surface coarseness and temperature; however, they significantly reduced the cutting force and tool wear at high cutting parameters. Surprisingly, inserts with TiN or TiAlN coating reduced the cutting force required by around 40 percent compared to flood conditions and 16 percent to MQL conditions, respectively. The combination of the thermally resistant TiAlN phase and the outstanding antifriction and anti-sticking properties that TiN possesses may be responsible for this phenomenon.