Advanced machining of miniature unmanned aircraft vehicle components using nanostructured cutting tools

Abstract

The advanced machining of components used in miniature unmanned aircraft vehicles is the focus of this study. The finite element method (FEM) is used to predict forces and temperatures using cutting tool inserts with a thin nanostructured film of high integrity. Similarity models are used to validate the finite element results and to understand the influence of micromachining parameters on cutting temperatures generated when machining Al 380-0 alloy. The predicted results are compared to experimental forces and temperatures using a three-dimensional piezoelectric function dynamometer and a short-range infra-red wavelength thermal camera. Nanostructured thin layer coatings lower machining forces and temperatures, which are validated through FEM predictions and experimental observations. The experimental results suggest that increasing the cutting tool’s rake angle at higher depths of cut will reduce cutting temperatures, which are predicted using the similarity models for micromachining.