Enhanced vibration control of an ultrasonic cutting process

An ultrasonic cutting technique has been developed which transmits 20 kHz vibration from a piezoelectric transducer to a series of blades via a system of tuned horns. Problematic vibration behaviour exists due to the high modal density around the operating mode frequency. For this reason, an understanding of the mechanisms of non-tuned mode excitation and careful system design are essential for a successful cutting operation. This paper presents an investigation into the contributing influences of the ultrasonic generator signal to the vibration response of the cutting system components. Improvements in vibration performance are realised by obtaining a full vibration picture of the system and its components, which leads to enhanced control of vibration transmission to the cutting edge at the tuned frequency.