Facing of inconel 718 using alumina based ceramics and PVD-TIALN coated carbide tools - A comparison

Abstract

This paper compares the performance of alumina based ceramic tools (silicon carbide whisker reinforced alumina and mixed alumina) and TiAIN coated carbide tool in the facing operation of solution annealed Inconel 718 components. The tool failure modes, tool life, surface roughness, material removal rates (MMR) and the total material removed (TMR) have been compared. The silicon carbide whisker reinforced alumina inserts are found to be more suitable for roughing and semi-finishing while the TiAIN coated carbide inserts can comfortably be employed for finishing applications owing to lower risk of sudden chipping and good surface roughness over a reasonably long machining time.