Abstract: Al2O3/TiB2 ceramic cutting tool is produced by hot pressing technique. Dry cutting tests are carried out on hardened steel with this ceramic tool. The tribological- chemical reaction and the oxide films on the tool face are studied. Results showed that self-lubrication took place when the cutting speed is higher than 120 m/min. The composition of the self-lubricating film is found to be the oxidation products of TiB2 grain, which can be act as the lubricating additives. Both the friction coefficient and the wear rates are reduced under these conditions. This self-lubricating ceramic tool can be used to reduce the friction-coefficient and to improve the wear resistance.

Key words: Friction and wear, Machining, Self-lubrication, Tool material