On Milling Process Using a Plain Milling Cutter with Helix Angle

Abstract

In milling process using a plain milling cutter with helix angle, three components of cutting force corresponding to the varying undeformed chip thickness are measured simultaneously and precisely by unique optical method, and the influences of helix angle on the variational configuration of cutting force in up milling and in down milling are discussed in detail. Based on the experimental results, the mechanics of milling process using a plain milling cutter with helix angle is discussed from the viewpoints of apparent friction angle on tool face, chip flow direction and effective rake angle, and the role of helix angle of a cutter in milling process is clarified experimentally.