Machinability improvement in Inconel-718 by enhanced tribological and thermal environment using textured tool

Abstract

Machinability of Inconel-718 superalloy in conventional approach is poor—this fact necessitates advanced technological adoption such as improved surface topography over used cutting tool. Recently, the performance of textured tool has been investigated to explore its potential benefits in achieving favourability in machining of superalloy. In that context, the impact of tool texturing, cutting speed and machining time on some of the prominent machinability indices like cutting forces, tool wear, surface finish and chip morphology has been deliberately investigated. The performance comparison of non-textured and textured tool has been conducted at cutting speed of 80, 120 and 180 m min−1 and at successive increment of machining times up to 10 min. Moreover, the scanning electron microscope analysis of worn tool edges was carried out to comprehend the wear mechanism. Furthermore, the thermal analysis was done for dedicated textured tooling condition. Results revealed that the textured tool performs better to ensure lower tool wear (VB), reduced cutting forces (Fc), lower surface roughness (Ra) and acceptable form of chips. The spots of textured tool acted as fins to promote efficient heat transfer from cutting zone and reduced the effective chip–tool contact length to cause less friction.