Investigation of the influential parameters of machining of AISI 304 stainless steel

Austenitic stainless steels are hard materials to machine, due to their high strength, high ductility and low thermal conductivity. The last characteristic results in heat concentration at the tool cutting edge. This paper aims to optimize turning parameters of AISI 304 stainless steel. Turning tests have been performed in three different feed rates (0.2, 0.3, 0.4 mm/rev) at the cutting speeds of 100, 125, 150, 175 and 200 m/min with and without cutting fluid. A design of experiments (DOE) and an analysis of variance (ANOVA) have been made to determine the effects of each parameter on the tool wear and the surface roughness. It is being inferred that cutting speed has the main influence on the flank wear and as it increases to 175 m/min, the flank wear decreases. The feed rate has the most important influence on the surface roughness and as it decreases, the surface roughness also decreases. Also, the application of cutting fluid results in longer tool life and better surface finish.