Forming process and evaluation of chip in machining of high-strength steel by an independent-developed microgroove turning tool

Chip morphology is one of the evaluation indexes of cutting performance of cutting tools, and chip forming process has a direct and important influence on chip morphology. High-strength steel 40CrMnMo is one of typical oil country tubular goods (OCTG) and difficult-to-cut materials, and its chip morphology represents the machining quality of OCTG. The chip forming process of a new independent-developed microgroove turning tool for turning oil country tubular goods 40CrMnMo is researched, combining machining experiments with theoretical analysis. Research results show that with the increase of cutting speed, the initial radius of curvature of the chip fluctuates slightly, but the overall trend is upward. However, the ultimate radius of curvature decreases and the chip’s radius ratio also decreases. The relative ideal chip can be obtained if the proper cutting velocity and feed rate are given. Chip morphology results from the comprehensive effect of the two processes: The fracture and separation process of the workpiece during passing through the shear deformation zone and the process of curling and breaking away of the chip after passing through the rake face of the tool. The research results have a certain guiding significance for controlling the cutting process of machining the other material with similar performance.