A Mechanistic Cutting Force Model for 3D Ball-end Milling

This paper presents an improved mechanistic cutting force model for the ball-end milling process. The objective is to accurately model the cutting forces for nonhorizontal and cross-feed cutter movements in 3D finishing ball-end milling. Main features of the model include: (1) a robust cut geometry identification method to establish the complicated engaged area on the cutter; (2) a generalized algorithm to determine the undeformed chip thickness for each engaged cutting edge element; and (3) a comprehensive empirical chip-force relationship to characterize nonhorizontal cutting mechanics. Experimental results have shown that the present model gives excellent predictions of cutting forces in 3D ball-end milling.