Review on 3D printing techniques for cutting tools with cooling channels

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Manufacturing Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Background:

• High-performance cutting tools are crucial for traditional machining of advanced materials.
• Additive manufacturing (AM) offers novel approaches for producing complex tool geometries.
• Optimizing AM processes is key to meeting the demands of the machining industry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in additive manufacturing of high-performance cutting tools.
• To analyze materials and methods for producing cutting tools with complex internal geometries.
• To provide guidance on selecting AM methods for tool production.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of additive manufacturing techniques for cutting tools.
• Analysis of materials suitable for high-strength, high-precision machining applications.
• Evaluation of machinability for tools produced via various AM processes (turning, milling, drilling).

Main Results:

• Additive manufacturing enables the production of cutting tools with intricate internal structures.
• Various AM methods and materials are suitable for creating high-performance cutting tools.
• Understanding material requirements and AM capabilities is essential for tool development.

Conclusions:

• Additive manufacturing presents significant opportunities for advancing cutting tool technology.
• Strategic selection of printing methods and strategies is vital for developing tools with complex geometries.
• This review provides a foundation for future research and development in AM-produced cutting tools.