High Speed Machining of Hardened AISI 1045 Steel

Abstract

Hardened AISI 1045 steel implemented in machine tool spindle was previously ground using grinding operation. This research aims to address the feasibility of hard turning AISI 1045 using PCBN tool with chip breaker under dry condition. Chip morphology, cutting force and temperature were measured, analyzed and correlated with machining parameters. Experimental results demonstrate that serrated chips are generated at high speeds, high feed rate is an assistant to promote serrated chips, and chip breaker can help break chip into acceptable lengths. Cutting forces were characterized with periodic fluctuation along three directions as chips are serrated. Temperature at machined zone can reach as high as 1200°C, which indicates that adiabatic shear bands can be successfully achieved during the machining of hardened AISI 1045 steel without applying lubricants.