SPK-Cutting ceramics are high-performance cutting materials . based ona-aluminium oxide. Inserts in SPK-cutting ceramics: are unique in their high red hardness, extreme wear resistance and chemical stability. In addition, a fine-grained structure and suitable density provide these inserts with an extraordinary toughness and resilience.
In this study, a turning tests have been conducted using three selected ceramic-tipped grades for cutting two different heat treatable steels. The experiment out line was set to evaluate the effects of the following factors on the tool performance, using the values of the flank wear as the measured variables :
i) Tool Materials: Grades: SN56, SN60, and SH 1.
ii) Work Materials: DIN: CK6O and 42CrM04.
iii) Cutting Conditions: Cutting speed, feed rate, and cutting time.
The optimum cutting conditions for minimum tool wear and maximum chip volume were obtained.
The results shows that any increase in the cutting speed, feed or cutting time cause an increase in the wear. Therefore, the best cutting condition depends on the tool grades and work materials.