Surface integrity of finished turned Ti-6Al-4V alloy with PCD tools using conventional and high pressure coolant supplies

Surfaces generated when machining Ti-6Al-4V alloy with PCD tools using conventional and high pressure coolant supplies was investigated. Longer tool life was recorded when machining Ti-6Al-4V with high-pressure coolant supplies and the recorded surface roughness R-a values were well below the tool rejection criterion (1.6 mu m) for all cutting conditions investigated. The micro-structure of the machined surfaces were examined on a scanning electron microscope. Micrographs of the machined surfaces show that micro-pits and re-deposited work material were the main damages to the surfaces. Micro-hardness analysis showed hardening of the top machined surfaces when machining with conventional coolant while softening of the subsurface layer was observed when machining under high-pressure coolant supplies. The later is probably due to lower heat generated, with the consequent tempering action when machining with PCD tools with high-pressure coolant supplies. The microstructure below the machined surfaces had minimal or no plastic deformation when machining with conventional and high-pressure coolant supplies. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.