Aluminium machining

After our first workshop focused on mould steels in May 2023, we will be organising two more practical workshops, this one on aluminium and a third on stainless steel machining (9 November 2023).  

Choosing cutting conditions based on experience alone may not always be efficient in machining, because it relies on subjective judgment and past experiences, which may not always be applicable to every machining operation. Every machining process is unique, and even a small variation in the workpiece material, tool geometry or other machining parameters can significantly affect the cutting performance. If the cutting conditions are not optimised for the specific machining operation, it can lead to various issues such as poor surface finish, tool wear, and reduced tool life, which can result in increased manufacturing costs, longer lead times, and decreased productivity. Therefore, it is important to use objective and data-driven methods to optimise the cutting conditions to ensure better quality and first-time-right machining. 

Model-based machining

We have recently developed a model-based machining platform to analyse and optimise cutting conditions using data-driven approaches. The models incorporate several analytical calculations from literature and research to estimate the effect of different cutting parameters on the outcomes, such as tool deflection, process stability and more. The platform has tools to visualise different outcomes with the help of heat maps that can help in make the right choice.

Why participate?

After our first workshop on mould steels in May 2023, this workshop will focus on aluminium: dynamics and vibrations, thin wall machining and wear.

In this practical workshop you will get acquainted with the different models, the relationships behind and learn how to put them into practice to achieve an optimal cutting process. 

You will learn quick insights on the following:

• How to select the best tool and cutting conditions for the application? 
• Understanding vibrations, precision, tool life and wear
• How to apply the platform for specific application?

The impact of good and bad decisions will be demonstrated in a hands-on practical session in our machining lab.

For whom?

This workshop will be useful for process engineers, machinists, and operators from your machine shop.

Be sure to register quickly and secure your seat, as space is limited.

This workshop is organised as part of the COOCK project ’Model-based processing' in which the ‘Model-based processing’ platform was developed with support from VLAIO.