Mechanisms of White Layer Generation With Reference to Machining and Deformation Processes

The term “white-layer” refers to hard layers of material which resist etching and appear featureless and white under the microscope. This paper presents some of the publications on white layer formed during machining and deformation processes. The mechanisms of white layer generation are discussed and to the three traditional mechanisms (usually associated with wear) of rapid heating and cooling, surface reaction and plastic deformation are added pressure, strain rate and cooling rate.