Analyses of chip morphology and cutting force in the threading of austenitic stainless steel

Chip formation and cutting force behaviour in the threading of austenitic stainless steels are important aspects that influence the performance of the process.The present paper analyses the impact of different infeed methods on the chip morphology and main cutting force in the threading of AISI 304L stainless steel.The results showed that long helical chips were predominant for the three infeed methods.The saw-tooth profile along the edges was present in the microscopic morphology of the chip, which is a characteristic of serrated chips.Flank and incremental infeed methods resulted in better chip generation and less restriction to chip flow when compared to the radial infeed.The main cutting force increased with the number of machined workpieces due to the progressive tool wear and the consequent changes in tool geometry.Radial infeed resulted in higher main cutting force than the other methods due to the V-shaped chip formation and higher stress concentration at the tool nose that accelerated tool wear.