Temperature measurements in the cutting zone, mass, chip fragmentation and analysis of chip metallography images during AZ31 and AZ91HP magnesium alloy milling

Abstract

Purpose This paper presents the results of mean unit weight of chips and their time to ignition measured on a test stand specially designed for this purpose. In addition, the temperature of chips in the cutting area and the morphology of chips produced in HSM milling (as a temperature indicator in the cutting area) are investigated. Also, different fractions of chips produced in the dry milling of Mg alloys AZ31 and AZ91HP by a PCD end mill are examined. Finally, the paper presents conclusions and recommendations with regard to safety and efficiency of dry milling processes for the aforementioned magnesium alloys. Design/methodology/approach Milling can be used as a finishing operation, particularly when using PCD end mills. The application of this mill type isparticularly important when producing different machine and device components, especially in the aircraft industry. What can occur in dry machining operations is self-ignition. It is therefore justified to investigate chip temperature in the cutting zone, to classify produced chip fractions and to determine their mass. Safe ranges of technological parameters can be additionally determined based on metallographic analysis of chip edge partial-melting. Findings The experimental results helped determine the effect of technological parameters of milling on chip temperature in the cutting zone, chip mass and fragmentation and chip morphology images. Practical implications The results reported in this work are innovative in both cognitive and practical aspect. The authors are convinced that this work can contribute to overcoming the mistrust of industrial practitioners toward dry milling of Mg alloys, and also with respect to the application of relatively higher cutting speeds in dry milling of these alloys than it is common practice in industry today. The study investigates the problem of safety in dry milling of Mg alloys. The study was motivated by the milling process itself and the formation of broken chip, which causes a significant change in the character of heat transfer. Originality/value The paper presents a method for multi-criteria safety assessment in dry milling operations. Safe and effective parameter ranges are defined with respect to chip temperature in the cutting zone, fraction number and chip mass.