Finite element modeling of ultrasonic-assisted turning: cutting force and heat generation

Abstract

Adding ultrasonic vibrations to conventional turning can improve the process in terms of cutting force, surface finish and so on. One of the most important factors in machining is the heat generation during the cutting process. In ultrasonic-assisted turning (UAT) the tool tip also vibrates at very high frequency and this sinusoidal motion causes complexity in heat modeling of the cutting system. Modeling and simulation of cutting processes can help to understand the nature of process and provides information to select optimum conditions and machining parameters. In this article, a finite element model has been developed for predicting tool tip temperature in UAT. The effect of machining parameters including cutting speed, feed rate and amplitude of vibration on the tool tip temperature has been investigated. In order to simplify the machining process, the cutting experiment has been carried out in dry condition. The results showed that by applying ultrasonic vibration to the cutting tool, the tool tip flash temperature increases but in some condition its average value could be less than the conventional machining.