Precision micro-milling process: state of the art
Lorcan O'Toole1, Cheng-Wei Kang1, Feng-Zhou Fang1,2
1Center of Micro/Nano Manufacturing Technology (MNMT-Dublin), University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland.
Advances in Manufacturing
|November 15, 2021
Summary
Micro-milling is a versatile precision manufacturing process crucial for industries like biomedical and aerospace. Understanding its unique physical phenomena is key to optimizing performance and expanding applications in advanced manufacturing.
Area of Science:
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Materials Science
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Micro-milling is a scalable precision manufacturing process with diverse applications.
- It is particularly vital for micro-scale features in biomedical implants and micro-texturing.
- Machining difficult materials presents unique challenges at the micro-scale.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the physical phenomena inherent in micro-milling.
- To analyze recent research on micro-milling inputs and outputs for process improvement.
- To introduce novel hybrid processes combining micro-milling with other technologies.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of physical phenomena: chip formation, size effect, and process instabilities.
- Review of recent research focusing on process inputs and outputs.
- Introduction of hybrid manufacturing processes integrating micro-milling.
Main Results:
- Identified key physical phenomena affecting micro-milling performance.
- Highlighted the multifactorial nature of these phenomena.
- Showcased advancements in hybrid processes for enhanced micro-milling.
Conclusions:
- Addressing micro-milling phenomena is essential for process optimization.
- Hybrid processes offer promising solutions to overcome inherent challenges.
- The scope of micro-milling applications, especially in bio-implant manufacturing, is expanding.
