Wear rates and wear mechanisms of alumina-based tools cutting steel at a low cutting speed

Abstract

Three ceramic insert materials, zirconia-toughened alumina (Al 2O 3–7vol%ZrO 2), mixed-based alumina (Al 2O 3–TiN–TiC–ZrO 2) and alumina reinforced with SiC whiskers (Al 2O 3–SiC w), were used to cut AISI 1040 steel at 3.9 m s −1. In addition, a traditional grade P10 insert (WC–TiC–Co) was tested. The lifetimes, according to KT/KM and VB B criteria, were determined using a profilometer and by image processing. The worn zones were observed with scanning electron microscopy techniques. Adhesion and plastic deformation were dominant wear mechanisms in zirconia-toughened alumina, mixed-based alumina and sintered carbide P10, both in the craters and in the cutting edges. As well as adhesion in alumina reinforced with SiC whiskers, a chipping wear mechanism was observed.