Final answer:
Cutting tools require mechanical properties such as hardness, toughness, and wear resistance to function effectively. They must withstand deformation, absorb energy without fracturing, and resist wear and erosion to maintain sharpness and accuracy during cutting processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A cutting tool must have certain mechanical properties to function effectively. These mechanical properties allow the tool to cut materials efficiently and maintain its sharpness over time. Some key properties include:
- Hardness: This is the resistance of the tool to deformation or penetration. A harder cutting tool will maintain a sharp edge for longer periods.
- Toughness: Toughness is the ability to absorb energy and plastically deform without fracturing. This helps prevent the tool from breaking during heavy or unexpected loads.
- Wear resistance: Wear resistance is the cutting tool's ability to withstand wear and erosion. This extends the tool's life and maintains its cutting accuracy.
Other important properties include heat resistance, which allows the tool to perform well at high temperatures without losing its hardness or toughness, and ductility, which is the material's ability to deform under tensile stress. These mechanical properties are essential for the efficiency and longevity of cutting tools in various industrial applications.