The rapid advancement of modern science and technology has not only spurred the evolution of CNC machining equipment but also significantly propelled the progress of cutting techniques. As production demands grow increasingly sophisticated and automated, traditional tool materials are giving way to innovative alternatives. New materials like titanium alloys, carbon fiber composites, and ultra-high-temperature resistant alloys are being introduced, enhancing tool quality and improving critical attributes such as reliability, precision, and lifespan.
One notable aspect of tool usage is the various forms of wear that occur over time. During mechanical processing, tools inevitably degrade after prolonged use, primarily manifesting in three ways: abrasive wear caused by mechanical forces, adhesion and diffusion resulting from high temperatures generated during cutting, and softening or melting of the cutting edge due to chemical reactions with raw materials. Let’s explore these wear mechanisms further:
1. **Mechanical Action-Induced Wear**: When cutting challenging materials, tool wear becomes particularly pronounced. This is largely due to the poor thermal conductivity of many hard-to-process materials. Elevated temperatures weaken the adhesive bonds within the tool material, hastening wear.
2. **Wear Caused by Excessive Heat**: Cutting tough and hard materials often leads to excessively high cutting-edge temperatures, causing tool degradation. In particular, when dealing with workpieces that produce short chips, "crescent wear" can develop near the cutting edge, drastically reducing tool longevity.
3. **Chemical Wear**: Some components in tool materials react chemically with those of the workpiece under certain conditions, leading to the shedding of coatings or the formation of unwanted compounds. Such occurrences accelerate tool damage and wear.
For effective cutting, tools must meet several performance criteria:
1. **Wear Resistance**: Different cutting tools vary widely in composition, ranging from basic white steel to advanced diamond-tipped ones. Their wear resistance spans a vast spectrum, impacting their overall utility.
2. **Impact Resistance**: A robust tool requires excellent toughness and the ability to maintain performance under high-speed conditions. Thermal hardness and chemical stability are essential traits for tools operating in demanding environments.
3. **Longevity**: To extend tool life, manufacturers often apply heat-resistant, high-hardness coatings or multi-layer treatments, broadening the tool's operational range.
When it comes to tool materials, there are several options:
1. **Alloy Tool Steel**: Known for its high-temperature hardness, this material is ideal for crafting intricate, low-speed tools such as reamers and taps.
2. **High-Speed Steel**: This versatile material boasts superior hardness, wear resistance, and heat treatment capabilities. It is commonly used for standard machine tools, including turning, milling, and drilling tools.
3. **Cemented Carbide**: Produced via powder metallurgy, this alloy combines carbides, titanium carbides, and cobalt. Cemented carbide is now one of the most popular tool materials globally.
In summary, the continuous evolution of tool materials and technologies reflects the dynamic nature of modern manufacturing. As industries demand higher efficiency and precision, the development of advanced tools remains crucial.
Reprinted from the Global CNC Tool Network.
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