Tool wear analysis in turning inconel-657 using various tool materials

Abstract

Inconel 657, also known as 50Cr-50Ni, is a high-temp, corrosion-resistant Ni-Cr alloy with excellent fuel-ash corrosion resistance against sulfur and vanadium. To make components from Inconel 657, it undergoes casting and machining for dimensional accuracy and surface finish. This study explores the effect of cutting speed on tool wear in turning Inconel 657, focusing on carbide and CBN tools. Higher cutting speeds led to increased flank wear for both tools. Carbide tool wear rose by 16% and 25% at 60 and 120 m/min compared to 30 m/min. CBN tool wear increased by 15%, 29%, and 66% at 120, 250, and 400 m/min compared to 60 m/min. CBN inserts showed 39% less wear than the carbide tool at 60 m/min and 35% less at 120 m/min. Therefore, the carbide tool suits low-speed turning, while the CBN tool is ideal for high-speed machining operations.