Abstract
Using polycrystalline cubic boron nitride compact (cBN) tools, which had the different cBN contents, the influences of both cBN contents and cutting speed on tool life in turning of hardened steel (SKD11, 60HRC) were investigated. Four types of cBN tools (cBN contents of 45 %, 55 %, 65 % and 75 % respectively) and a coated cBN tool (cBN contents of 55 %) were tested. In order to find out the wear mechanism of cBN tool, the SEM observation and the EDS analysis were carried out on the worn surface of cBN tool. The main results obtained are as follows: (1) The most suitable cBN contents of cBN tool was 55 % from the standpoint of tool life. (2) The wear progress of coated cBN tool was slightly slower than that of un-coated cBN tool.
