Tribological Properties of Micro-Groove Cemented Carbide by Laser Processing

Tool wear is the main factor of tool failure in cutting difficult-to-machine materials. This paper aims to analyze the anti-friction mechanism of laser machining micro-groove cemented carbide. Firstly, micro-grooves were prepared on the cemented carbide surface by laser processing. Secondly, we conducted an analysis of the mechanical properties of laser texturing by measuring hardness. Finally, we studied the anti-friction mechanism of micro-grooves by a wear test (ASTM G133-05). Results show that surface hardness increases after laser treatment. The friction coefficient and surface wear of micro-groove cemented carbide are significantly reduced compared with the conventional surface. The friction coefficient of PE and OB decreased by 20.6% and 10.7%, respectively. It is found that the direction of micro-grooves determines whether metal debris can be removed—the stronger the ability to remove metal debris, the better the tribological properties of the micro-groove surface.