Machining is one of the stochastic processes, in which, the work specimen is exposed to rigorous plastic deformation which, results in rapid increase in work hardening effect and affects the life of the cutting tool particularly for Inconel 718. The depth and degree at which machined surface harden depends on factors like material properties, tool composition and tool dimensions, tool condition, cutting environment and cutting parameters. This article aims to study the work hardening effect and flank wear while machining in different conditions with different cutting tools. Further, it is important to correlate the cutting velocity and tool wear with wok hardening effect. Experimentation was carried out on Inconel 718 in a CNC lathe machine under various machining conditions namely dry, minimum quantity lubrication and flood cooling using different tools namely PVD coated TiAlN, Ceramic (70% Al2O3 + 30% TiC) and cBN having same tool dimensions. © 2019, MM publishing Ltd.. All rights reserved.