Influence of wiper edge on surface integrity for end-milling of Ti-6Al-4V

The present study focuses on the process parameters influencing the surface quality of end-milled parts made of Ti-6Al-4V alloys with wiper edge insert. Part quality is understood here to mean geometric and mechanical surface criteria. The parameters involved are the cutting speed, the feed rate and the axial depth of cut. After preliminary test studies between two similar inserts, one was selected for its better performance. Then roughness and residual stresses were measured across several studies focusing on different cutting parameters. The main results of the study shows that the wiper edge plays a major role towards surface integrity and suppress the influence of feed rate and cutting speed on it. Moreover the surface integrity generated presents a roughness industrially acceptable for finishing (Ra < 0.8 µm) and compressive residual stresses that are positive towards fatigue life. Copyright © 2023 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.