Determination of optimum cutting parameters for machining of austenitic stainless steel based on manufacturing management requirements

Austenitic stainless steels are widely-used to fabricate equipments for energy systems such as oil, gas industries and power plants. Therefore, proper selection of cutting parameters may play an important role in decreasing the price of generated energy. However especial mechanical properties distinguish this type of steels from the others. High ductility and high work hardening tendency are the main factors that make their machinability difficult with common utilities such as poor surface finish and high tool wear. In this study, a few sets of experimental data is considered to develop a mathematical model for computing actual surface roughness with implementing the role of cutting speed to modify available model for apparent surface roughness depending on only feed rate and tool nose radius. In order to determine the optimum cutting parameters for austenitic stainless steel with its special properties, step by step calculation procedure is presented in this study taking into account some manufacturing concerns neglected in other available tables and charts. The results of this paper gives this opportunity to machinists to select cutting condition based on their own need including minimum manufacturing expenses or time, and maximum metal removal rate.