Surface modification of YW2 cemented carbide cutting tool by high current pulsed electron beam

Abstract

Surface modification of YW2 cemented carbide cutting tool was carried out through high current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) with different pulsed times, and the microstructure, mechanical properties and cutting performance is also investigated in this work. The evolution of phase composition and morphology of tool was tested by means of XRD and SEM, and the microhardness was measured. The results showed that the content of metastable phase Co3W3C is increased in tool surface after beam irradiation. The metastable phase and residual compressive stress induced by HCPEB treatment modified the microhardness of YW2 turning insert dramatically. The cutting performance of YW2 turning insert with 40 times irradiation was examined and compared with original one by machining Ti-6Al-4V alloy bar. It is found that the irradiated YW2 tool increased cutting speed than that of un-irradiated one along with serious wear.