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Metal fabrication and metrology

Development of cutting tools for machining nickel-based superalloys

Customer name :
Optimum Canada

Completion date : 2022 à 2024

In brief

The aim of the project is to "Develop cutting tools for machining nickel-based superalloys".

Project summary

Machining nickel-based alloys such as Inconel poses significant challenges. Indeed, these alloys have a very low machinability rate, resulting in reduced cutting speeds and premature wear of cutting tools. The partner company therefore wishes to develop a new range of cutting tools for Inconel machining, with the aim of increasing material removal rates and improving cutting tool life.

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CTA's role

The CTA's role is to work with its partners in the development of new cutting tools, and to carry out machining tests to characterize the impact of modifications applied to new tool types. The project is divided into four phases:

  1. Characterize the mechanical properties of current coatings.
  2. Study the failure mechanisms of current coatings.
  3. Improve the properties of existing coatings and develop new coatings.
  4. Test new coatings and improve cutting tool geometry.

Results

  • Tests carried out on CTA's machine tools have identified the impact of certain geometrical elements on cutting tool life.
  • Other tests involving new types of coating have revealed their influence and enabled us to define the coating thickness required to extend tool life.