Machinability

Machinability describes the suitability of a material for machining processes such as turning, milling, drilling or sawing. It is an important parameter in manufacturing technology and influences the efficiency of machining and the quality of the end product. Materials with good machinability enable precise shaping, produce smooth surfaces and result in low tool wear. Machinability depends on various factors, including the chemical composition, microstructure and mechanical properties of the material. Stainless steels vary in their machinability depending on their alloy and microstructure. Austenitic stainless steels, for example, are more difficult to machine than ferritic or martensitic variants due to their toughness and tendency to work harden. Sawing is a specific machining process in which a multi-edged tool with a straight or circular cutting motion separates material. It is often used to cut bar and profile material to length or to cut openings in plates. Choosing the appropriate machining process and adjusting the machining parameters are crucial to ensuring optimum machining quality and cost-effectiveness.