Modeling and predicting for surface topography considering tool wear in milling process

This paper presents a model for the prediction of surface topography considering tool wear during the milling process. First, the cutting edge path equation, which can be transformed into equivalent polynomial equations and solved for discrete positions along the feed direction, is established including the effect of tool wear. Then, cutting edge is divided into a series of cutting points and an algorithm is proposed to determine the range of divided position angle. Finally, surface topography model is established based on the established cutting path equation, the range of position angle, the calculated cutting time, and spiral lag angle. By using this model, surface topography generation is simplified with respect to other models in literature and the modeling method of surface topography does not need to mesh the workpiece and the model can easily be extended to include other factors on surface generation. Based on the established surface topography model, an algorithm is proposed to simulate generation of surface profile in milling operation. Experimental work and validation of the established model is performed on a five-axis milling center by using stainless steel 1Cr18Ni9Ti and cemented carbides milling cutter. Cutting test results about the topography generation of the plane and cylindrical surface show good agreement with model predictions.