Investigation of machinability behaviors of NiTi shape memory alloys by using different cutting tool materials and examination of performance parameters

Nickel-titanium shape memory alloys display super elasticity and shape memory properties in addition to their superior mechanical properties. This alloy is employed in many fields in the industry and investigated in scientific studies. However, the machinability of this material is quite difficult. Furthermore, it is known that the machining process has some negative effects on the functional properties of this material. In this study, machinability behaviors of nickel-titanium alloy were investigated using various cutting tool materials in turning and milling process. A wide range of cutting speed values was experimentally investigated using conventional and high hardness cutting tool materials. The evaluated machinability behaviors are tool wear, tool life, surface roughness, microstructure and thermal phase transformation properties. The obtained data showed that cutting speed and cutting tool material have great influences on machinability parameters. It is seen that it is possible to machine this alloy at high cutting speeds if proper cutting speed and cutting tool material is selected. Moreover, it is concluded that high-speed machining is required in order to minimize the negative effects of machining on functional properties.