TECHNICAL TIP #32; END
MILLS; REDUCING VIBRATION & CHATTER:
When chatter arises it
tends to be self-sustaining until the problem is corrected. This condition
causes poor finished on the part and will damage and significantly reduce the
life of end mills. Carbide end mills are peculiarly susceptible to damage.
When experiencing chatter problems, the basic reflex action is the reduction
of cutting forces. This can be done by:
(1) Reducing the number of flutes.
(2) Decreasing the chip load per tooth by reducing the feed or increasing
the speed or RPM.
(3) Reducing the axial or radial depth of cut.
Even
though these steps can and will reduce chatter, slowing down the cutting process
is not always the best course of action and reducing the chip load can be
detrimental to the cutter.
Better first steps are to improve rigidity and
stability:
(1) Use a larger end mill with a larger core diameter.
(2)
Use end mills with reduced clearance or a small circular margin.
(3) Use the
shortest overhang from spindle nose to tip of tool.
(4) Use stub length end
mills where possible.
(5) Use balanced tool holders.
(6) Rework fixture
to hold the work piece more securely.
(7) Reprogram the cutter path shifting
cutting forces into stiffer portions of the work piece.
(8) Look for sweet
spots in spindle speeds then adjust feed accordingly.
A common source of chatter is the machining of corners. As the end mills
enters the corner the percentage of engagement increases the number of teeth in
the cut. This drastically increases the cutting forces, causing chatter. Using
circular interpolation and producing a bigger corner radius then the part print
calls for then going back and removing the remaining stock with a smaller end
mill using circular interpolation will reduce the tendency to chatter.
If
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You
can reach Kennametal-Greenfield Technical Support by phone at
1-888-GFI-TOOL, by fax at 1-888-GFI-FAXX or e-mail at mailto:tech.support@gfii.com