Effects of micro textured sapphire tool regarding cutting forces in turning operations

In this study, the effects of microscale textures on a sapphire cutting tool were investigated. The texturing of microscale features on a solid surface allowed control of the tribological characteristics of the tool surface. Microscale geometrical characteristics on the rake face of the sapphire tools were obtained through micro-abrasive blasting. Tribological tests and cutting tests on an aluminum alloy workpiece were carried out, and the cutting forces were measured and analyzed. The effect of texture on adhesion of work material was investigated. Results showed that friction was minimized and cutting forces at the tool-chip interface of the textured tool were significantly reduced from those of a conventional tool. It was observed that the adhesion of work material was reduced by applying texture on the tool rake face.