Optimisation of the Machining of Stellite 6 PTA Hardfacing Using Surface Roughness

Abstract

Stellites are cobalt based super alloys. By virtue of their excellent physio-mechanical properties, stellites are highly regarded engineering materials. Stellites posses high corrosion resistance and wear resistance properties. This study investigates the Stellite deposition process and machinability of Stellite 6 deposited on steel subtrate. Stellite 6 was deposited onto a 4140 bar using a plasma transfer arc (PTA) system and machinability was assessed on the basis of surface roughness. A series of turning operations have been carried out on a conventional lathe using coated carbide inserts and surface roughness was evaluated by Stylus type Surtronic3+ instrument. The values of surface roughness were plotted against different cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut to display the results in graphical forms. Optimal cutting regimes were established against the best values of surface roughness.