Prediction of specific force coefficients from a FEM cutting model

This paper presents a method to obtain the specific cutting coefficients needed to predict the milling forces using a mechanistic model of the process. The specific coefficients depend on the tool–material couple and the geometry of the tool, usually being calculated from a series of experimental tests. In this case, the experimental work is substituted for virtual experiments, carried out using a finite element method model of the cutting process. Through this approach, the main drawbacks of both types of models are solved; it is possible to simulate end milling operations with complex tool geometries using fast mechanistic models and replacing the experimental work by virtual machining, a more general and cheap way to do it. This methodology has been validated for end milling operations in AISI 4340 steel.