Modeling of high-feed milling and surface quality applied to Inconel 718

Abstract

In modern manufacturing, machining remains a vital process for complex mechanical components. In particular, the aerospace industry extensively employs high-feed milling techniques to machine complex geometries from nickel-based superalloys. This study focuses on the analysis and modeling of high-feed milling for Inconel 718 in 2.5-axis machining. Its objective is to develop a generalized model of high-feed milling that enables the prediction of surface topography. The proposed model integrates crucial geometric parameters of the tool and its exact kinematic within the machine, along with tool and machine deflections caused by cutting forces. A key novelty of this research lies in its capability to determine surface topography and its quality based on a generalized model, representing significant progress in the field of high-feed milling. To validate the model, experimental efforts are measured to characterize the cutting forces and system deflections during machining. The developed approach demonstrates its ability to model surface topography and to predict surface roughness. It also highlights the influence of tool and machine deflection on surface quality. This research contributes to the advancement of the application of high-feed milling in aerospace manufacturing by enhancing machining capabilities and improving part quality.