Abstract
In this study, the effect of the addition of silicon carbide to alumina ceramics commonly used in cutting tool applications is addressed. Performance of Al2O3–SiC composite cutting inserts during the machining of hardened steels and ductile iron was compared to the results obtained for a cutting tool made out of 99 wt.% Al2O3, Al2O3–TiC, Al2O3–TiC–ZrO2, and Al2O3–TiN. In almost all tests, the composite with silicon carbide demonstrated better wear resistance, longer tool lifetime, and the ability to cut at higher speeds. The enhanced properties of cutting tools with SiC can be attributed to the morphology and dimensions of the inclusions in the matrix as well as to the strength of the interphase boundaries, small porosity, and lack of high inner stresses in the volume.
Highlights
Ceramic cutting tools are often applied in the machining of difficult-to-cut materials like hardened steels [1], nickel alloys [2], Inconel [3], or titanium alloys [4]
As15-6 was chosen for the tests as a material for the cutting tool designed for precise machining of hardened steels
From the perspective of the cutting tool application, it is crucial to obtain a strong material with high wear resistance
Summary
Ceramic cutting tools are often applied in the machining of difficult-to-cut materials like hardened steels [1], nickel alloys [2], Inconel [3], or titanium alloys [4]. Despite the advantages of Al2 O3 -based ceramics, they have been shown to have a lower toughness, higher probability of transverse rupture, and lower thermal conductivity when compared to other commonly used materials. These material properties contribute to a lower resistivity to mechanical and thermal shocks, which limits their application in cutting tools [7]. It was found that the addition of non-oxide particles like TiC and
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