Main Ways to Improve Cutting Tools for Machine Wheel Tread Profile

Abstract

This chapter considers the methods to increase the performance and reliability of the reprofile machining of the wheel tread profile. Proceeding from the fact that both in milling and turning, the cutting tool is a key element to ensure performance and reliability of the manufacturing process, the study considers the methods to increase the performance properties of cutting tools. In particular, the study includes the investigation of the following ways to improve cutting tools (carbide inserts) to machine wheel tread profile: replacement of traditional grades of WC-TiC-Co carbides with more efficient ones based on WC-TiC-TaC-Co; application of special thermally conductive pads, gaskets, and pastes to improve the distribution of heat flows in the cutting zone; and application of modern nanoscale composite multilayer coatings (NMCC). It is noted that even higher performance can be obtained by combining the above three methods, in particular, by combining application of special thermal pads and NMCC.

Tool wear analysis in milling of locomotives wheels

“…Reprofiling the wheel tread profile is an important and large-scale manufacturing challenge. Both in milling and turning, the cutting tool is a key element that ensures both the efficiency and the reliability of the manufacturing process [2].…”

“…Extensive research has been conducted on wheel tread. Alexey et al [2] showed that the most common mechanism of failure is the brittle fracture of the cutting edges, such as macrochipping on the rake and flank faces of the carbide inserts. They also noticed that the highest rate of inserts wear was registered in the area of the raceway.…”