Abstract
Making use of the cutting characteristics of the rotary tool, this paper suggested a new approach to fabricate the metallic fibers of advanced industrial materials. Different types of metals were tested including a carbon steel, titanium alloy, stainless steel, pure nickel and even cast iron. By dry cutting under certain conditions, fibrous chips are definitely formed with the following features in common : (1) uniform geometry with triangular cross-section, (2) shear bands almost parallel to the longitudinal direction of the chip (fiber), and (3) high strength. Short fibers are produced in the case of cast iron, or by interrupted cutting for the other materials. Formation mechanism of the fibers by rotary cutting was discussed, and factors influencing the fiber formation were examined. It is found that the rotating motion of the tool plays an essential role in forming this unique type of fibrous chip.
