Tool Geometry
Tool Geometry
The desirability of getting the maximum use from a tool before it needs regrinding is one of the objectives of tool technology. There are many factors that contribute to cutting tool efficiency. The most important of these are the following. 1. The shape of the cutting edge that removes the excess material. 2. The correct selection of the cutting tool for the material to be machined. 3. The correct choice of cutting speed and feed. 4. The proper setting of cutting tool relative to work. 5. The correct choice and proper application of coolants. The optimum tool geometry depends upon the following factors: 1. Work piece material. 2. Machining variables a. Cutting speed b. Feed c. Depth of cut d. Material of the tool point e. Type of cutting Terms and definitions 1. Face: The Face is the surface over which the chip flows. 2. Cutting Edge: The Cutting Edge carries out the cutting 3. Nose: The Nose is the corner, arc or chamfer at the junction of the major and the minor cutting edges. 4. Flank: The Flank of a tool is the surface below the cutting edge. 5. Tool Angles: the various angles influence the tool performance and therefore their value should be selected with great care and consideration. The various functions of rake or slope of the tool face are as follows: 1. It allows the chip to flow in a convenient direction. 2. It gives sharpness to the cutting edge. 3. It increases tool life. 4. An improved surface finish is obtained. 5. The cutting force is reduced, and therefore power required during cutting is reduced.
Back Rake Angle It measures downward slope of the top surface of the tool from the nose to the rear along the longitudinal axis. Its purpose is to guide chip flow. It also serves to protect the point of cutting tool. The size of the angle depends on the material to be machined. The softer the material the greater should be the positive rake angle. Aluminium requires more rake angle than cast iron or steel. The back rake angle may be positive, neutral or negative. General rules for rake angles are as follows. 1. Use positive rake angles when, a. Machining work hardening materials. b. Machining low strength ferrous or non-ferrous metals. c. Using small machine tool with low horse power. d. Turning long shafts of small diameter. e. Setup and work piece lacks strength and rigidity. 2. Use negative rake angles when, a. Machining high strength alloys. b. Interrupted cuts and heavy feed rates are to be used. c. Machine tools are more rigid. Side Rake Angle It measures the slope of the top surface of the tool to the side in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. It also guides the chip away from the job. The
amount that the chip bent depends upon this angle. Larger side rake angle produces smooth surface finish. End Cutting Edge Angle It is the angle between the face of the tool and a plane perpendicular to the side of the shank. It acts as a relief angle that it allows only small section of the end cutting edge to contact the machined surface and prevents chatter and vibrations. Side Cutting Edge Angle It is the angle between the side cutting edge and longitudinal axis of the tool. It avoids the formation of buildup, edge, and controls the direction of chip flow. It distributes the cutting force and heat produced over large cutting edge. Side Relief Angle The angle made by flank of the tool and a plane perpendicular to the base just under the side cutting edge. This angle permits the tool to be fed side way in to the job so that it can cut without rubbing. End Relief Angle. It is the angle between a plane perpendicular to the base and the end flank. This angle prevents the cutting tool from rubbing against the job. Nose Radius The nose radius is provided to increase the finish and strength of the cutting tip of the tool. Small radii produce smooth finish and are used on thin cross-section of work. Large radii strengthen the tool and are used where cuts are interrupted.