Effects of Tool Material on the Machinability of Titanium (Grade-5) Alloy using RSM

This paper presents the findings of experimental investigations into the effects of cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut and approach angle on the machinability of titanium (Grade-5) alloy. The comparison for two different cutting materials inserts, i.e. polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and cubic boron nitride (CBN) with similar tool geometry for similar machining parameters is also carried out. Design of experiment technique i.e. response surface methodology (RSM) has been used to accomplish the objectives of the experimental study. The experimental plan for four factors at three levels using face centre, and centred composite design (CCD) was employed. The results approved the approach angle as a dominant factor on the surface roughness and the tangential force evaluation as machinability criteria. In comparison to CBN cutting insert, the PCD insert showed better surface finish and smaller cutting force in association with the parameters considered for investigation in machinability study of Titanium (Grade-5) alloy.