High Speed Cutting of Superalloys

A possibility to improve the productivity in production industry is the implementation of high speed cutting processes. In particular, the high performance machining of superalloys such as titanium- and nickel-based alloys makes high demands on tools and machines. Therefore, it is important to understand the chip formation mechanisms during high speed cutting. This paper describes the effect of different influential variables including the tool chip angle, cutting velocity, chip thickness and the structure of the superalloys Inconel 718 and TiAl6V4 on chip formation and cutting forces. The experiments were accomplished on a a quick-stop experimental rig, which allows to decelerate the workpiece, even for very high cutting speeds, within a distance which is smaller than the chip thickness. The experimental examinations were completed by temperature measurements. The knowledge of the resulting tool, workpiece and chip temperatures from high performance machining of hard machinable alloys at high cutting speeds contributes to understanding of the different chip formation mechanisms and the influence on tool-life.