Machinability Studies of D6aC Alloy Steel Hardened to 54 Rc 620496
The results of emprical investigations of the drilling, tapping, and surface grinding characteristics of D6aC alloy steel hardened to 54 Rc are reported. This material is machined readily by these processes under appropriate cutting conditions; however, this hardness level appears to be an upper limit to the use of steel drills and taps. A new type of tap, characterized by a unique land geometry, has been developed and tested; this has proved substantially superior to conventional geometries for the present application. Recommendations are formulated for machining this material by each of these processes, and for certain design limitations attendant thereto.
