Enhancing the wear resistance of PCD tools in cutting Cf/SiC materials through low-energy laser shock peening

Despite the exceptional hardness of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tools, rapid wear remains a challenge when machining carbon fiber-reinforced silicon carbide (Cf/SiC). To address this issue, a low-energy laser shock peening without coating (LE-LSPwC) technology was employed to enhance PCD tools. First, the impact of laser parameters on the enhancement effect was explored to determine the optimal strengthening parameters. Subsequently, in-depth studies on the impact surface and internal strengthening mechanisms were conducted using EBSD, SEM, and TEM techniques. This research unveiled the formation mechanisms of a multilayer structure comprising an amorphous carbon layer, graphite layer, and diamond layer on the surface, along with two predominant strengthening mechanisms involving plastic deformation and dislocation hardening. Finally, the manufacturing process for LE-LSPwC treated PCD tools was established, and tool performance was validated through cutting experiments.