Machinability of Hardened Alloy Steel using Cryogenic Machining

Abstract

Machining of hardened alloy steels demand special cutting tools such as PCBN, ceramic. However, these cutting tools are uneconomical and also demand machine tool structures, which have high stiffness and vibration dampening properties. In the current trend towards Green manufacturing it is desired to produce more with less. Green manufacturing also emphasizes on an eco-friendly process. Hence, it is postulated to improve the machinability of these materials by alternate, economical means. One such alternative is cryogenic machining. In the current research work, it is envisaged to study the machinability of hardened alloy steel using commercially available cutting tools (coated carbide) under the influence of cryogenic as the coolant. Machinability factors under influence of cryogenic machining such as tool life, surface roughness and power consumption are studied. Results show that cryogenic as an alternative to coolant during machining of hardened materials increases the process efficiency by reducing energy consumption and also showed significant improvement in tool life. The process thus demonstrates the capability of replacing the special cutting tools that are required for hard turning applications. The portability of the setup for commercial use is also considered. � 2017 Elsevier Ltd.