Segmented and mathematical model for 3D FEM tapping simulation to predict the relative torque before tool production

Abstract

The conventional tapping tool development consists of costly investigative experiments. The development time and cost can be significantly reduced, if these test were replaced by virtual analyses, before the tool prototypes are fabricated. Compared to turning, milling and drilling, in which many valid simulative methods have been established, the tapping process has been given rather little research attention. In this paper an approach is presented, which could be used during the design phases, to predict the relative torque, so that resources, energy and cost can be saved. Based on a simulated reference model, which is in good agreement with corresponding experimental results, the problem of a long computing time could be solved by using a proper segmentation method, which offers a process simulation along the whole chamfer length. With an according mathematical model, the discontinuous torque curve could be summarized to a total load cycle.