Optimization of the flute grinding process

As the tool grinding process has a verifiable influence on the machining behavior of cutting tools several investigations on the optimization of the flute grinding process of end mills were conducted. Therefore grinding tests with innovative grinding wheel specifications were carried out and the work result was evaluated in terms of cutting tool relevant parameters. Furthermore results from the development and use of ceramic end mills for CFRP machining are shown. Investigations about the influence of different process- and tool-related parameters on the milling work result and process parameters are presented.

Tool grinding as the essential manufacturing process in the generation of the cutting edge geometry of end mills plays an important role because it influences the machining behavior of the milling tool notably. It involves all grinding operations for the generation of shapes and functional surfaces on a cutting tool. For one-piece end mills it can be applied that despite the great variety of tool geometries basically three grinding operations are necessary: flute, peripheral and face grinding. Within these operations the flute grinding process itself has a major function because in comparison it possesses a high material removal Vw that goes along with a high main time and also has the dominating influence on the cutting edge generation . Due to economical reasons flute grinding processes are generally performed in creep feed grinding mode.