Machinability assessment of Inconel 718 turning using PCBN cutting tools

Abstract

Machining processes of Ni-based alloys typically lead to very high wear rates and significant heat generation, even when small material removal rates are considered. Despite the increasing usage of PCBN tools in the machining of Ni-based superalloys, further research is required in order to better understand the associated benefits. In this work, the machinability of Inconel 718 in two different delivered strength conditions has been evaluated using PCBN tools through instrumented turning operations. Tool-life has been explored and linked to cutting force evolution. Numerical simulation of the turning operations has revealed important towards tool wear modelling.