Influence of cutting edge radius on cutting forces in machining titanium

The performance of machining titanium can be enhanced by using cutting tools with rounded cutting edges. In order to better understand the influence of rounded cutting edges and to improve the modelling of the machining process, their impact on active force components including ploughing forces and tool face friction is analysed. This paper presents experimental results of orthogonal turning tests conducted on Ti-6Al-4V with different cutting edge radii and changing cutting speeds and feeds. As an accurate characterisation method for the determination of the cutting edge radius is prerequisite for this analysis, a new algorithm is described which reduces uncertainties of existing methods. (C) 2010 CIRP.