Investigation on the performance of AlCrN and AlTiN coated cemented carbide inserts during end milling of maraging steel under dry, wet and cryogenic environments

Abstract

The present study investigates the machining performance of AlCrN and AlTiN coated cemented carbide inserts during end milling of MDN 250 maraging steel. The mechanical and metallurgical characterization is carried out to determine the properties of the PVD coatings developed. The end milling experiments under dry, wet and cryogenic environment is carried out using coated uncoated inserts (UC) at different spindle speeds to evaluate the machining performance in terms of tool life, surface roughness and cutting forces. The coated inserts showed higher tool life, better surface finish, and low cutting forces during machining at different spindle speeds. It is found that the AlCrN coating had a better wear resistance and machining performance in comparison with AlTiN coating. The cryogenic environment reduced the surface roughness & cutting force and improved the tool life of the cutting tool compared to conventional dry and wet environment. It is revealed that coated tools along with cryogenic cooling can be employed for high-speed machining applications.