© 2019 Elsevier Inc. This paper describes a new method to evaluate the friction coefficient at the tool-work interface in machining process where high stress and temperature are caused. In order to examine the feasibility of the proposed method, the present report introduces the method and the results obtained only at room temperature. Ti6Al4V, SUS304, AISI1045, FCD 700, FCD 450 and FC300 were used as work materials, while TiN coated carbide tool, TiAlN coated carbide tool and P15 were used as tool materials. The proposed method provided the friction coefficients of different coatings against different work materials, and demonstrated the variability of friction coefficient and the anisotropy of surface roughness.