Abstract: By using the quantitative image analyzer, EPMA, SEM et al, the effects of the size, inter-distance, homogeneity and number of non-metallic inclusions mainly in Ca-S free cutting structure steel on tool life were studied.The results show that the critical length of non-metallic was 8 μm under this experimental conditions.
A mathematical model describing the relation between the parameters of non-metallic inclusions and tool life was set up:
T=α·Hβ·Ne^γ
According to the model, the tool life(T) dePends mainly on effective number(Ne) and homogeneity(H) of non-metallic inclusions in steels.