An Experimental Investigation on Micro End Milling with High-Speed Up Cut Milling for Hardened Die Steel

Abstract

The importance of micromachining using small diameter end mills and the dies used for them has been increasing in the machining of small parts. However, the reality is that there are various requirements to improve the machining surface, machining accuracy, machining efficiency, and tool life. Therefore, this paper discusses the possibility of satisfying these requirements by high-speed up cut milling in side cutting. The goal of this study was to solve the aforementioned problems, by conducting a detailed analysis of the machining phenomena in order to understand their mechanisms. In particular, the effects of high-speed cutting using a high-speed air-turbine spindle with highly stiff rolling bearings were analyzed. Moreover, cutting experiments were conducted by measuring the cutting force and flank wear of the tool, to reveal the differences in the cutting phenomena relative to the cutting direction in high-speed micro end milling. Description of the machined surface and the measurement of its profile were also included in the discussions. On the basis of the results, high-speed up cut milling is a better choice than down cut milling; furthermore, a high-feed rate further increases machining efficiency and improves tool life.