Abstract: Based on the analyses of the severity of cutting process as well as the failure mechanisms of ceramic tools, a model for designing functionally gradient ceramic tool materials with symmetrical distribution is presented, by which a Al 2O 3/(W,Ti)C ceramic tool material FG 2 was developed. Multi objective optimization method was employed in designing the compositional distribution of this ceramic tool material. The results of both continuous and intermittent cutting tests are indicative of the much better cutting behavior of the functionally gradient ceramic tool FG 2 than that of the common ceramic tool SG 4.

Key words: functionally gradient materials, materials design, compositional distribution, ceramic tool