Influence of cutting parameters on cutting forces and surface roughness in dry turning of Al using PCD and different coated tools

Aluminium (Al) is the suitable material for aerospace and automotive industries due its light weight, corrosion resistance, weldability, non-magnetic and mechanical properties. But, machining of Al and its alloy and finding the suitable tool is really a big challenge because of its formation of BUE (Built-up Edge) and BUL (Built-up Layer). This paper presents the influence of cutting parameters (speed, feed and depth of cut) and its effect on the cutting force and the surface finish. Five different advanced cutting tool inserts (SPUN WC, SPGN WC, PCD, WC + TiN and WC + Ti(C, N) TiN + Al2O3) at different cutting speed (Vc) ranging between 300 m/min and 700 m/min and feed rate (f) of 0.045, 0.06, 0.09 and 0.125 mm/rev at a depth of cut of 0.2 mm (constant throughout the experiment) were taken for the experiment. Tool inserts were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The cutting forces were measured using Kistler force dynamometer. Amongst all tools, PCD provided a better result in all aspects but surprisingly WC tool provided a better surface finish with lesser tool wear. For all cutting conditions, high speed (670 m/min) and low feed rate (0.045 mm/rev) were recommended.