Temperature-dependent shear localisation and microstructural evolution in machining of nickel-base superalloys

•Development of an experimental set-up for investigation of the mechanisms of microstructural surface deformation in machining of Ni superalloys under controlled tool and workpiece temperatures.•The relationship between cutting energy and microstructural deformation in machining is found to be temperature-dependent.•Chip serration, shear localisation and grain refinement can be induced individually by increased thermal fields or increased mechanical interaction, with distinction of the role of thermal and mechanical effects.