Cutting Performance of a Longitudinal and Torsional Ultrasonic Vibration Tool in Milling of Inconel 718

Abstract

Inconel 718 has excellent thermal and chemical properties and is widely used in the manufacture of aerospace parts; however, there are some problems in the machining of Inconel 718, such as a large milling force, serious tool wear, and poor surface quality. In this research, a type of longitudinal–torsional ultrasonic milling (LTUM) tool is designed based on theoretical computations and FEM simulation analysis. To verify the design rationality of the developed LTUM tool, milling experiments are performed. It is verified that the LTUM tool can realize an elliptical vibration path at the tool tip. The resonance frequency of the tool is 21.32 kHz, the longitudinal amplitude is 6.8 µm, and the torsional amplitude is 1.4 µm. In the milling of Inconel 718, the experimental data of LTUM are compared with those of conventional milling (CM). The comparative experiments show that the LTUM tool can effectively lessen the milling force and tool wear in the milling of Inconel 718, improve the surface quality, inhibit the generation of burrs, and improve the chip breaking ability. The application potential of the LTUM tool in high-performance milling of Inconel 718 parts is proven.