Machining titanium: key reason it is difficult to machine Identify the primary reason machining of titanium alloys is difficult and leads to rapid tool wear and poor chip control. Choose the correct statement.
Mechanical Engineering
Production Engineering
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AHigh thermal conductivity of titanium
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BChemical reaction/adhesion between tool and work material
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CLow tool–chip contact area
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DNone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: Chemical reaction/adhesion between tool and work material
Explanation
Given facts
- Titanium has low thermal conductivity (heat concentrates at the cutting edge).
- It is chemically reactive at cutting temperatures, promoting adhesion (galling) and diffusion wear.
Concept/ApproachThe dominant issue is tool–work chemical affinity at high temperature, which causes built-up edge, notching, and diffusion wear. Low thermal conductivity exacerbates the temperature rise, but option (a) incorrectly states it as high.
Final AnswerChemical reaction/adhesion between tool and work material