ABSTRACT
Cutting tool inserts have been fabricated using alumina with different amounts of silver
by conventional powder metallurgical route. The machining performance of these
composite inserts vis-à-vis that of commercial zirconia toughened alumina inserts have
been evaluated by dry turning operations on steel bars under a wide range of cutting
parameters. The experiments consisted of measurement and examinations of the static
and the dynamic components of the cutting force spectra, flank wear of the tool, surface
roughness on the work piece, and chip morphology. Analyses of the fluctuations in the
dynamic force spectra using a new approach based on a quasi-fractal model have been
used to reveal the potential of different tool materials with respect to their cutting
performance. Examinations and pertinent discussion of the operative wear mechanisms
during machining by the developed composites vis-à-vis their structure-property
relations are some essential supplements of this investigation.