Title: Performance analysis of uncoated, TiN coated and cryotreated micro tungsten carbide tools while micromilling of Ti-6Al-4V

Authors: Narendra Bhople; Sachin Mastud; Rinku Mittal

Addresses: Production Engineering Department, Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), Mumbai, 400019, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), Matunga, Mumbai 400019, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, IISC, CV Raman Road, Bangalore, 560012, India

Abstract: Micromilling is one of the most suitable methods for machining of 3D complex micro-components. Precise micromilling is still a challenging task due to unpredictable tool life. Additional tool life improvements can also be realised by cryotreatment of carbide tools. In the present work, performance of tungsten carbide (WC) micromilling cutter has been enhanced by cryotreatment. The performance of cryotreated tools are benchmarked with uncoated and TiN coated tools while machining of Ti-6Al-4V. Metallurgical characterisation of cryotreated tools has revealed the increased η (eta) carbide phase. Cutting forces, surface roughness (Ra) and tool wear have been assessed for the evaluation of tool performance. TiN coated tool is most suitable to produce better surface finish, whereas built-up edge (BUE) is dominating for cryotreated tool. Cutting speed 60,000 rpm, feed 2 μm/flute, depth of cut 100 μm and TiN coated tool is appropriate to produce good surface finish in given parameter.

Keywords: micromilling; cryotreated tools; uncoated; cutting force; tungsten carbide; TiN; Ti-6Al-4V alloy.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMM.2022.122781

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials, 2022 Vol.24 No.1/2, pp.110 - 131

Received: 20 Aug 2021
Accepted: 04 Nov 2021
Published online: 10 May 2022 *

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