A theoretical and experimental investigation of surface roughness formation in ultra-precision diamond turning

In this paper, a model-based simulation system is presented for the analysis of surface roughness generation in ultra-precision diamond turning. The system is based on a surface roughness model which takes into account the effect of tool geometry, process parameters and relative tool-work vibration. It is evaluated through a series of cutting experiments. The results indicate that the system can predict well the surface roughness profile and the roughness parameters of a diamond turned surface under various cutting conditions. With the use of the spectrum analysis techniques, the system can also help to analyze the effect of vibration on the surface quality of workpiece and to diagnose the machine faults. The potential application of the system in process optimization is also discussed in the text.