Comparison of Flank Super Abrasive Machining vs. Flank Milling on Inconel(®) 718 Surfaces

Thermoresistant superalloys present many challenges in terms of machinability, which leads to finding new alternatives to conventional manufacturing processes. In order to face this issue, super abrasive machining (SAM) is presented as a solution due to the fact that it combines the advantages of the use of grinding tools with milling feed rates. This technique is commonly used for finishing operations. Nevertheless, this work analyses the feasibility of this technique for roughing operations. In order to verify the adequacy of this new technique as an alternative to conventional process for roughing operations, five slots were performed in Inconel(®) 718 using flank SAM and flank milling. The results showed that flank SAM implies a suitable and controllable process to improve the manufacture of high added value components made by nickel-based superalloys in terms of roughness, microhardness, white layer, and residual stresses.