Thermal Modelling of Heat Flux and Tool-chip Interfacial Temperature Distribution in Orthogonal Machining

Modeling of the heat flux generated during machining is of significant importance in order to understand its effect on the cutting tools and tribology of machining. An important criterion influencing the life of cutting tools is the tool-chip interfacial temperature, which affects the ability of the cutting tool to function properly without suffering unwanted damage or thermal degradation. This paper presents the estimates of transient heat flux and temperature distribution in the cutting tool based on temperatures measured below the cutting tool insert with an embedded thermocouple, during orthogonal machining of a plain carbon steel under dry cutting. The results indicate that the heat flux in machining, which is traditionally considered constant during machining, may have a time dependent variation.