COMPARISON OF MACHINING AND WEAR PERFORMANCE OF 22MnB5 BORON STEEL AND HIGH-SPEED STEEL CUTTING TOOLS ON 6061 ALUMINIUM ALLOY

Abstract

In an effort to utilize a robust material for friction-resistant applications, high-strength and high-hardness 22MnB5 boron steel is widely employed. Its unique properties make it thinner and lighter while retaining high strength, making it suitable for demanding tasks. This study evaluates the performance of 22MnB5 boron steel as a cutting tool for machining aluminum alloy Al 6061 and compares it with high-speed steel (HSS). A round piece of 22MnB5 boron steel, specified as RNGN 120300, was laser-cut and tested in CNC turning with cutting speeds of 200 to 300 m/min, a feed rate of 0.1 mm/rev, and a depth of cut of 0.5 mm. Results indicate that 22MnB5 boron steel outperforms HSS in machining Al 6061, offering tool life improvements of 5% to 11%. The wear mechanism for 22MnB5 boron steel was primarily abrasive at lower cutting speeds, while built-up edges at increased cutting speeds led to adhesive wear in the form of a tribolayer.