Surface integrity of inconel-718 nickel-base superalloy using controlled and natural contact length tools. part I: Lubricated

The surface integrity of inconel-718 nickel-base superalloy was investigated using orthogonal cutting at various cutting speeds, depths of cut and chip-tool contact lengths under lubricated conditions. The experimental work involved the determination of residual stress, plastic strain and microhardness distribution in the surface region and the examination of the surface and subsurface using scanning electron and optical microscopy. Both residual stresses and plastic strains decreased and the quality of the mechined surface improved with an increase in cutting speed, a decrease in depth of cut and with tools having controlled chip-tool contact lengths. The results were interpreted in terms of the variation in shear plane length and consequently the variation in tool forces with cutting conditions.