The effect of multi-layer surface coatings of carbide inserts on the cutting forces in turning operations

In this paper, the effects of multiple layer hard surface coatings of cutting tools on cutting forces in steel turning are presented and discussed based on an experimental investigation with different commercially available carbide inserts and tool geometries over a range of cutting conditions. The cutting forces when turning with surface coated carbide inserts are assessed and compared qualitatively and quantitatively with those for uncoated tools. It shows that hard surface coatings reduce the cutting forces, although the reduction is marginal under lighter cutting conditions. The cutting force characteristics for surface coated tools are also discussed and show similar trends to those of uncoated tools