Progress in the Development of Modern Ceramic Cutting Tool Materials

A review of ceramic cutting tool materials, their history, production, properties and applicability in metalworking operations is presented from a materials viewpoint along with a comparison of the properties of ceramics and cemented carbides. The close relationship between ceramic tool material development and improvement in productivity in the transportation industry is emphasized. Predictions as to how new ceramic tool materials currently under development will influence the metalworking industry in the future are presented.