Cuttability

Cuttability is a measure of how readily a material can be cut by a cutting operation using a particular tool and set of process conditions. It reflects the ease of initiating and propagating a cut, the forces and energy required, and the quality of the resulting edge. Cuttability is influenced by material properties, geometry, and processing parameters, and is used to guide material selection and process optimization in manufacturing and fabrication.

Material properties that affect cuttability include hardness, yield strength, ductility, toughness, and grain structure, as well as anisotropy and surface condition. External factors such as thickness, temperature, moisture, and prior work hardening can alter cutting response. Tool geometry and condition—edge sharpness, rake angle, clearance, edge radius—as well as tool material and coating, interact with the workpiece. Cutting conditions such as speed, feed rate, depth of cut, lubrication or cooling, and chip formation mode (shear, fracture, or brittle fracture) also play critical roles.

Measurement and evaluation often rely on cutting force data, specific cutting energy, and edge quality indicators such as burr size and surface roughness of the cut. Dynamic signals from sensors (for example force, torque, or acoustic emission) are used to assess machinability in process development. Tests may include turning, milling, shearing, or laser cutting, depending on the material and application.

Applications of cuttability knowledge include selecting suitable tool materials and geometries, choosing appropriate cutting parameters, and predicting production costs and waste. It is closely related to the broader concept of machinability and helps engineers balance productivity, tool life, and part quality.