Investigation of Thrust Forces, Torque and Chip Microstructure during Drilling of Ti-6Al-4V Titanium Alloy

Titanium Alloys are unique due to their high strength-weight ratio,good fracture and corrosion resistance characteristics.They form a significant metal portion of the aircraft structural and engine components. However, their low thermal conductivity and high reactivity with cutting tools during machining, makes them difficult-to-machine materials. In this work, an investigationof the thrust force, torque and chip morphology in drilling of Ti6Al4V, titanium alloy using tungsten carbide tipped drill has been carried out at varying cutting speeds of 19.4, 27.14, 43.41 and 67.82m/min at a constant feed rate of 0.15mm/rev.The machinability, work hardening and thermal softening effects of titanium alloy, during drilling, has been analysed through the effects of the machining process on the thrust force, torque and chip microstructure.