Geometrical analysis of thread milling – Part 1: Evaluation of tool angles

Abstract

Thread milling is a method which is increasingly used for machining thread. For this operation, a helical interpolation is required. Furthermore, the thread mill is a tool whose geometry is rather complex. Its envelope profile is linked to the thread profile and a single tooth of the thread mill is composed of three continuous cutting edges. The present study proposes a geometrical model and an analytical formulation to define the rake face and the cutting edge. Further, the calculations of cutting planes and cutting angles are explained. The analysis shows specific aspects of thread mills, in particular the fact that the flute angle may lead to a negative rake angle. This study is a contribution to cutting geometry aspect and constitutes a step for cutting force model in thread milling.