Comparison of Ground and Laser Machined Wiper Geometry on Carbide Inserts for High Performance Finishing

Abstract Cutting tool development is still driven by trial and error and therefore requires various prototypes and modifications. The normal manufacturing process for carbide cutting inserts includes die production, pressing, sintering, grinding and coating. A laser can provide an easy and economical way to make modifications and prototypes out of pressed inserts. The paper compares a normal pressed and ground insert with the same geometry using various laser manufacturing options. The insert features a wiper geometry for high feed per revolution and a chip breaker. As performance criteria the cutting forces and the machined surface quality were measured and analysed. It was found that the cutting edge and surface quality of the insert depends on the laser strategy and thus influences the cutting force and the workpiece quality. No difference was discovered comparing ground and laser machined inserts showing the potential for prototyping.