Assistance processes for material machining

Producing parts with increased productivity and/or improved product quality (dimensional accuracy, mechanical strength, surface integrity...) may require changes to manufacturing processes. In machining, several lines of research may be relevant. It is possible to enhance cutting tool performance (grades [B 7 080] – and/or geometries [BM 7 086][BM 7 082][BM 7 088]), improve machine tool behavior (machine dynamics, kinematics [B 7 121][BM 7 030]...), optimize tool trajectories (machining strategy), or even modify the material to increase its machinability.

Another possible development is the use of machining assistance. In this case, the aim is to supply additional "energy" to the cutting zone. This additional external energy may be mechanical, thermal (heating or cooling) or even magnetic. This is generally referred to as "assisted machining". The stakes are many:

• increase tool life by reducing the thermomechanical stresses to which it is subjected, in particular by limiting tool/workpiece and tool/chip friction;

• promote chip fragmentation and evacuation;

• increase the machinability of the material, in particular by reducing the cutting force;

• improve the surface integrity of the final product.

At the same time, the implementation of these new processes must respect a "clean machining" approach, without compromising the safety of people or property.

At present, there are at least five types of machining assistance, not all...