Machining of selenium treated stainless steel

Owing to stainless steel having greater strength, high toughness and strain hardening characteristics, stainless steel is more difficult to machine than carbon or alloy steels. The above material characteristics have a major effect on the life of the tool and surface finish characteristics of the workpiece. Stainless steel grades are increasingly being used in machine parts, particularly where there is a corrosion environment. The work presented shows results from stainless steel workpieces which have been treated with selenium. Cutting tests have been carried out under turning and drilling conditions which have shown a considerable improvement in machinability.