Intermittency and multiscale dynamics in milling of fiber reinforced composites

We have analyzed the variations in cutting force during milling of a fiber-reinforced composite material. In particular, we have investigated the multiscale dynamics of the cutting force measured at different spindle speeds using multifractals and wavelets. The multifractal analysis revealed the changes in complexity with varying spindle speeds. The wavelet analysis identified the coexistence of important periodicities related to the natural frequency of the system and its multiple harmonics. Their nonlinear superposition leads to the specific intermittent behavior. The workpiece used in the experiment was prepared from an epoxy-polymer matrix composite reinforced by carbon fibers.