A Study on the Parameters in High-Speed Turning of Superalloy Inconel 718

This article deals with an experimental investigation into the different cutting factors which influence the machinability factors such as cutting force, cutting temperature, and tool life during high speed turning of superalloy Inconel 718. Also the article aims to study the relationship of cutting parameters with respect to the tool–chip contact length and chip microstructure. A standard K-type (alumel/chromel) thermocouple was embedded in to the top shim of the tool holder to measure temperature during turning. The test results show that there exist a close relationship between the cutting parameters and tool–chip contact length, thermal loading equivalent, and chip microstructure. In particular, it was observed that by the proper selection of cutting parameters the cutting force, cutting temperature and tool life can be controlled to the great extent. Also by selecting the proper cutting parameters, the tool–chip contact length can be controlled effectively so as to reduce the temperature which is responsible for rapid tool wear (flank wear) and plastic deformation of the cutting edge. The cutting parameters greatly affect the microstructure grain orientation of the chip.