A Contribution to Determination of Tool Change Interval

Abstract

In machining operations by multi-spindle machine tools or transfer machines, the choice of tool change procedures, especially the decision of tool change interval is critical to the economy of the production. Due to the inherent variability of the tool life, the optimum solution is not directly reached : however, in this study, a simulation by Monte Carlo method offers a useful means to determine the most economical method and interval of the tool change. From the computed data, it is indicated that the scheduled tool change is more economical than the tool change as the tool fails, and that the total cost and time of production are largely reduced by a proper choice of its interval.