Lateral cutting force during machining of wood due to momentary disturbances in the wood structure and degree of wear of the cutting tool

The paper presents a study of the effect of momentary disturbances due to variations in wood structure on the lateral cutting force. Density, shape and fibre-direction of the disturbances, and the degree of wear of the cutting tool are taken into consideration. The paper shows that high density gradients result in high lateral forces. The highest momentary lateral force noted has a value of approximately 40 N. The geometrical shape of the cutting tool in terms of degree of wear has a big impact on the lateral force. The work indicates a potential to increase the cutting performance by a more accurate supervision of the condition of the cutting tools.