Reactive diffusion in cutting high-alloy steel by means of a hard-alloy tool

Diffusional processes in the cutting of high-alloy steel by means of a hard-alloy tool are considered. At the front surface of the tool, a carbide coating may be formed on cutting, on the basis of carbide-forming elements in the steel and carbon diffusing from the hard alloy. Reactive diffusion without the formation of visible intermediate layers is assumed to affect tool wear.