Inhibitory Effect of Laser Surface Texturing in Dry Cutting of Titanium Alloy on Cemented Carbide Tool Wear

Compared to conventional tools, the cutting performance of microtextured tools is significantly better. Laser surface texturing (LST) is the most important technique for producing a microstructure. The modification of microstructure properties of tools by LST has not received much attention. In this study, the effects of LST on the microstructural properties of tools were investigated, and the specific causes of the improvement in wear resistance of tools by laser micro texturing and the effects of micro-texture on adhesive wear of tools were revealed. In this study, microtextured tools with different laser parameters were fabricated and the test was conducted for cutting titanium alloys. The changes in tool microstructural properties and tool wear morphology were compared and analyzed. LST effectively reduces the release of co-elements during cutting, solidifies WC particles, and reduces the adhesive and oxidative wear of the tool. In addition, the micro-texture and surrounding annular protrusions significantly reduce cutting heat, which in turn reduces diffusive and abrasive wear. In this context, the morphology of the micro-texture facilitates adhesive fracture and peeling of the adhesive wear, while the annular protrusions help reduce tool wear. Their interaction significantly improves the wear resistance of laser-machined microtextured tools.