Improved wear resistance of Si3N4 tool inserts by addition of Al2O3 platelets

In the present work, Si3N4 matrix composites reinforced with different amounts of Al2O3 platelets (0, 30 and 50vol%) were produced with the aim of increasing the tribochemical resistance in the machining of steels. Tool wear was related to the linear increase of the main cutting force (Fc) with time (dFc/dt); a real-time parameter that can be used to assess the cutting edge damage and to stop machining before the tool fails. For all machined steels, tool wear resistance increased with increasing Al2O3 platelet content.