Abstract
This work discusses the machinability of AISI-1045 steel in a magnetically assisted environment. Physically, magnetization causes suppression of Bloch walls in ferromagnetics, which enhances the dislocation paths within the Weiss domains of the matrix material. From a material point of view, the changes were manifested through an enhancement in steel plasticity, resulting in (i) a widened slip band area within the primary shear zone (PSZ) and (ii) improved plastic flow at tool-steel interfaces along the secondary shear zone (SSZ). From a mechanical point of view, the modifications can be summarized as a neat drop of the thrust force component due to the magnetic action generated by the external source, i.e., the current coil. The changes observed in the local diagram of forces cause alterations in the tribological properties at the tool-material interfaces. These alterations act to accelerate formation of the chip and lead to save energy because of the decrease in the cutting period, which should significantly improve the operating lifetime of the tool.