Optimization of the micro-textures on the cutting tool based on the penetration of the lubricant in the micro-textures

Abstract

In recent years, surface textures in micron scale is introduced into the rake face of cutting tools to facilitate the lubricant penetration into the cutting area and improving the friction conditions between tool-chip contact area. The penetration process of lubricant into micro-textures introduced into the rake face of the cutting tool during machining process is analyzed through theory calculation, FEA analysis and penetration experiments. It is found that the initial penetration velocity increases as the size of the micro-texture decreases; However, due to the combined effect of capillary pressure and friction force, the penetration distance for micro-texture with larger size is longer than that for micro-texture with smaller size when the penetration distance is larger than 0.15 mm; micro-texture with smaller size is suitable for smaller chip width, 0.15 mm under the conditions in this study, and micro-texture with a larger size is more effective for large back engagement in consideration of lubricant penetration. Also, an optimum size of micro-texture on the rake face of cutting tools should take both lubricant penetration and strength of the cutting tool into consideration. The results of this study would benefit for the designation of micro-textures in the future.