Force and specific energy in stone cutting by diamond mill

Cutting force and energy are often used as parameters for monitoring the stone cutting process. Empirical models are required to guide the selection of cutting conditions. In this paper, the effect of cutting conditions on 'cutting force and energy are reviewed. The effects of cutting conditions on cutting force and cutting energy are related to the shape of the idealized chip thickness. The empirical models developed in this paper can be used to predict the variation of the cutting energy. Therefore, the models can be used to guide the selection of cutting conditions. The chip generation and removal process has been quantified with the intention of assisting both the toolmaker and the stonemason in optimising the tool composition and cutting process parameters, respectively. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.