Influence of Feed Rate Response (FRR) on Chip Formation in Micro and Macro Machining of Al Alloy

Abstract

In this paper, the investigation of chip formation of aluminum alloy in different machining strategies (i.e., micro and macro cutting) is performed to develop a holistic view of the chip formation phenomenon. The study of chip morphology is useful to understand the mechanics of surface generation in machining. Experiments were carried out to evaluate the feed rate response (FRR) in both ultra-precision micro and conventional macro machining processes. A comprehensive study was carried out to explore the material removal mechanics with both experimental findings and theoretical insights. The results of the variation of chip morphology showed the dependence on feed rate in orthogonal turning. The transformation of discontinuous to continuous chip production—a remarkable phenomenon in micro machining—has been identified for the conventional macro machining of Al alloy. This is validated by the surface crevice formation in the transition region. Variation of the surface morphology confirms the phenomenology (transformation mechanics) of chip formation.