Experimental and simulative analysis of an adapted methodology for decoupling tool wear in end milling

Abstract

The machining of nickel-based superalloys such as Inconel 718 still poses a great challenge. The high strength and temperature resistance of these materials lead to poor machinability, resulting in high process forces and extensive tool wear. However, this wear is stochastic when reaching a certain point and is difficult to predict. To generate consistent wear conditions, the tool wear can be decoupled from the milling process by creating artificial wear using grinding. In this paper, a multi-axis approach for decoupling tool wear is presented and analyzed. Therefore, scanning electron microscope images of different wear states – worn and artificially worn – are analyzed. In addition, the occurring process forces of naturally and contrived worn inserts are compared in orthogonal cutting experiments as an analogy setup. Finally, a finite element analysis using a novel methodology for segmenting relevant cutting edge sections using digital microscope images provides qualitative insights on the influence of different wear conditions.