When CNC machining titanium, there are some important factors to keep in mind. These include using high-pressure coolant to reduce heat production and reducing radial engagement. There are also certain machine tools and coatings that you should select. These considerations will make your machining process go more smoothly.
High-pressure coolant reduces heat generation
High-pressure coolant can reduce heat generation when CNC machining titanium. This type of fluid can also improve surface roughness and reduce tool-workpiece contact length. Several studies have reported positive results using this type of fluid. One study found that the use of MQL reduces tool-workpiece contact length by as much as 80%. Another study concluded that MQL improved surface finish while reducing torque.
CNC machining titanium can result in significant heat generation during cutting. However, the high-pressure coolant can reduce heat generation significantly. Studies have shown that using high-pressure coolant can improve cutting performance and tool life. It is important to use the proper coolant for your application.
Keeping radial engagement low
When CNC machining titanium, it is important to reduce radial engagement. Titanium is difficult to process because it has a high surface velocity and does not dissipate heat well. It also enters the tool at a higher rate than other metals, so this heat can be a problem. The proper radial engagement depends on the desired metal surface speed, the feed rate, and the cutting edge’s sharpness.
Titanium is known for its high tool wear. This tool wear is typically found at the top of the cutting zone, or at the interface where chips release. By changing the axial engagement of the cutting tool on each pass, this problem is minimized. Titanium is also prone to chattering. This can occur with thin walls or slender features.
Selecting a tool coating
The primary considerations when selecting a tool coating for CNC machining titanium are heat generation and tool life. Titanium is a low-conductivity metal that can be prone to vibration and heat. The process of cutting titanium is highly stressful to the tool, which can cause it to break or dull prematurely. Furthermore, the heat generated from cutting can result in rubbing, which increases the risk of fire. In addition, dull tools are expensive and can cause damage to work.
A high-temperature-resistant tool coating can help prolong the life of the tool and help it resist chipping and galling. However, a tool coating with a high friction coefficient can result in tool failure and shorten its lifespan. Therefore, it is important to choose a coating with a low friction coefficient. Coated tools can also reduce the risk of high-temperature fusion welding.
Selecting a machine tool
Choosing the right machine tool for CNC machining titanium requires careful consideration of several factors. The tool’s cutting edge must be sharp enough to allow the tool to efficiently cut through the material. For titanium, a carbide tool with a PVD coating is the best choice. Titanium is a springy material, and blunt tools will rub the surface, increasing chatter and adding to heat.
Titanium is a high-strength material, with a high strength-to-weight ratio. The material also has a low coefficient of elasticity and low thermal conductivity, which increases the cutting force. In addition, titanium alloys have a high friction coefficient, which results in higher temperatures and greater force at the cutting edge.
Choosing a grade of titanium
CNC machining titanium parts requires a lot of precision and care. There are many advantages of this metal, including its resistance to corrosion, recyclable nature, and high strength for its weight. However, the material presents several challenges and requires special tools and processes. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right grade for your CNC machining needs.
There are several titanium grades, and each has a different set of characteristics. For example, grade 23 is used for medical applications, while grade 6 is appropriate for high-temperature applications. It is important to consider the applications for which you will use the material.
