Ultrasonic vibration-assisted milling of aluminum alloy

The objective of this paper is to investigate the effects of assisted ultrasonic vibration in the operation of micro end milling. Based upon numerical analysis for the trajectory of a tool tip of a two-flute end mill, it was found that the assisted feed direction ultrasonic vibration can achieve separate-type milling that is different from conventional operation by reasonable parameter matching. To validate theoretical analysis and investigate the influence of ultrasonic vibration on milling process, a slot-milling experiment was conducted on an aluminum alloy work piece. The desired ultrasonic vibration was applied in the feed direction by an ultrasonic vibrator. Through investigating and comparing some experimental results involving cutting force, chip formation, surface topography, surface roughness, and machining dimensional accuracy, the authors found that micro end milling with ultrasonic vibration in the feed direction leads to a pulse-like cutting force and produces uniform small chips. Assisted ultrasonic vibration in the feed direction has a negative effect on the surface roughness of the slot bottom, but a positive effect on the dimensional accuracy of the slot width.