Improving the cutting characteristics of pure tungsten using a halogenated cutting fluid

Abstract

This paper investigates the possible modification of the cutting behavior of pure tungsten, a difficult-to-cut refractory metal, by a halogenated cutting fluid. The results reveal that halogen adsorption on the workpiece surface during cutting induces embrittlement, leading to discontinuous thinner chips with cracks on the surface, and reduced cutting forces. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms halogen adsorption on the chip surface. An explanation based on the known effect of halogen adsorption on the electron work function of tungsten and its corresponding mechanical properties is given. The work shows the potential of the approach to improve the cutting behavior of difficult-to-cut metals.