An Examination of the Tribological Contact Conditions in Machining Using PVD TiN coated Cutting Tools

Understanding the frictional interaction between chip and the rake face of the cutting tool is a particularly complex and challenging problem. Unlike “normal” friction in conventional sliding, the initial contact near the cutting edge between the chip and the tool involves intimate contact so that the distinction between real and apparent area of contact is not relevant. It is important, therefore, to understand contact condition between chip and tool in order that one might better design surface coatings to reduce wears and promotes longer tool life.