A review of sequential micro-machining: State of art approach

Abstract

In the recent years, a sequential micromachining is attracting attention of researchers as it is most promising structured approach to combine and utilize advantages of different types of micromachining techniques which improves the productivity in manufacture of high precision micro features of most advanced components. Sequential micromachining is a most effective recent approach to fabricate micro features of sophisticated parts to minimize drawbacks of individual machining techniques if they were used individually. In general, this technique combines the individual micro machining techniques in a logical sequence stages to machine faster with rough cuts in the former and achieve final sizes and tolerances in the later stage. It is the opposite of hybrid micro machining in which two techniques are combined together. Sequential micromachining can be done on different machine tools or preferably on the same machine tool for better work settling accuracy, low production time and hence less rejection. Thus, it is leading to manufacture of multifunction machine centers to perform sequential micromachining on the same machine. Eventually its necessities this manufacture to be more flexible and dynamic to accommodate the future requirements in a better way. The main aim of this review paper is to give latest developments in the field of sequential micromachining processes, especially done with same machine tools and their usefulness in terms of advantages, productivity, and applications. It also gives emphasis on capabilities of future possible combinations of various techniques with high potential in this domain.