This paper is focused on the influence of the cryogenic treatment on the machinability of hardened and quenched AISI 52100 bearing steel (average hardness of 64 - 65 HRC) when turning with mixed alumina tools. The effect of cutting speed, feed rate and time for cryogenic treatment on tool life and surface finish was investigated. The microhardness values of the samples were not drastically affected by the duration of the cryogenic treatment. In general, the samples subjected to cryogenic treatment for 24 hours presented lower roughness values and promoted longer tool lives. Additionally, noteworthy values for the Sbi and Sci parameters were obtained after turning the samples treated cryogenically for 24 hours.
hard turning; cryogenic treatment; ceramic tool
