Ultra-precision machining of stainless steel using coated carbide tool

• Main Author: Liew, Willey Yun Hsien
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers 2009
• Subjects: TS Manufactures
• Online Access: https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/21385/1/Ultra%20precision%20machining%20of%20stainless%20steel%20using%20coated%20carbide%20tool.pdf; https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/21385/

Purpose: This paper discusses the experimental work carried out to investigate the performance of coated carbidetool in ultra-precision machining of stainless steel and evaluates whether this tool can be used to fabricate a cavitywith high form accuracy and surface finish on a stainless steel mould insert. Design/methodology/approach: The results obtained in the turning process and the machining of cavity ona mould insert under various conditions and parameters are examined. Findings: The experimental results obtained in the turning tests gave an important insight of the appropriateparameters and the condition to be used in the machining of cavity on a mould insert. The cavity machined on thestainless steel mould insert with the coated carbide tool in the presence of natural oil has superior form accuracyand surface finish. Research limitations/implications: Further research is needed to investigate the performance of the coatedcarbide tools in machining profiles of other shape and diameter. Practical implications: Profile with a superior form accuracy and surface finish can be machined on a stainlesssteel mould insert using a coated carbide tool instead of using a PCBN tool, a much more expensive tool. Originality/value: The paper presents original information on the ultra-precision machining of tool steels at lowspeeds. The paper is of interest to manufacturing engineers.