This study investigates the machining performance of Ti-6Al-4V ELI during using coated and uncoated carbide tools under systematically varied cutting speeds and feed rates. Cutting forces, tool-wear progression, and surface-roughness characteristics w...
This study investigates the machining performance of Ti-6Al-4V ELI during using coated and uncoated carbide tools under systematically varied cutting speeds and feed rates. Cutting forces, tool-wear progression, and surface-roughness characteristics were quantitatively assessed using a multi-component dynamometer, optical microscopy, and contact-type profilometry. The uncoated tool exhibited relatively low initial cutting forces but showed rapid flank wear, unstable thrust-force behavior, and surface deterioration under high-speed or high-feed conditions. In contrast, the PVD-coated tool demonstrated significantly enhanced wear resistance and more stable cutting behavior, particularly reflected in reduced thrust-force fluctuations and improved hip evacuation. As a result, the coated tool consistently produced better surface quality at elevated machining parameters. These findings highlight the distinct mechanical and thermal advantages of coated tools in machining this low-thermal-conductivity titanium alloy and provide practical guidelines for selecting tooling and optimizing cutting conditions for high-stability, high-precision machining of Ti-6Al-4V ELI.