Abstract

This paper reviews the current state-of-the-art surrounding the development of micro and nanomachining processes viewed from a materials’ perspective. The paper begins by reviewing the theory of machining at the micro and nanoscale, and then introduces the reader to the advantages associated with ultra high speed machining. However, the heterogeneous nature of the material being machined has a profound effect on tool wear. Therefore, an extensive part of the paper is devoted to the development of cutting tool materials, coatings and extremely high speed machining regimes. Specially constructed machine tools are required to use these cutting tools at speeds in excess of one million revolutions per minute. This review provides a timely explanation of the literature that surrounds the advances made in micro and nanomachining from a materials’ perspective.