Performances of micro-textured WC-10Ni3Al cemented carbides cutting tool in turning of Ti6Al4V

Cutting performances of micro-textured WC-10Ni(3)Al cutting tools compared with micro-textured WC-8Co cutting tools in turning of Ti6Al4V was investigated in this study. Cutting forces, cutting temperature, and tool life based on the criterion of a 300 pm flank wear were measured. The wear tracks of the rake face and flank face for micro-textured WC-10Ni(3)Al cutting tools were analyzed. It is found that WC-10Ni(3)Al cutting tools had smaller heat damages during LST compared with WC-8Co cutting tools, which was benefit for avoiding premature tool failure during Ti6Al4V machining process. Micro-textures on the rake face could effectively reduce cutting forces, cutting temperature, adhesion on the rake face, and hence increase tool life, especially at higher cutting speed.