Analysis and Prediction of the Machining Force Depending on the Parameters of Trochoidal Milling of Hardened Steel

Current demands on quality are the engine of searching for new progressive materials which should ensure enough durability in real conditions. Due to their mechanical properties, however, they cannot be applied to conventional machining methods. In respect to productivity, one of the methods is the finding of such machining technologies which allow achieving an acceptable lifetime of cutting tools with an acceptable quality of a machined surface. One of the mentioned technologies is trochoidal milling. Based on our previous research, where the effect of changing cutting conditions (cutting speed, feed per tooth, depth of cut) on tool lifetime was analysed, next, we continued with research on the influences of trochoid parameters on total machining force (step and engagement angle) as parameters adjustable in the CAM (computer-aided machining) system. The main contribution of this research was to create a mathematical-statistical model for the prediction of cutting force. This model allows setting up the trochoid parameters to optimize force load and potentially extend the lifetime of the cutting tool.