Development and evaluation of tool dynamometer for measuring high frequency cutting forces in micro milling

A tool dynamometer is developed for measuring the high frequency cutting forces, and evaluated in micro milling of aluminum 6061-T6 using a tungsten carbide (WC) micro end mill. To improve the accuracy and productivity of the machining process, it is essential to monitor and control the machining process by measuring cutting forces. In order to improve the precision and quality of machined parts, high-speed machining with smaller micro tools is required, causing higher frequency cutting forces. The first natural frequency of tool dynamometers is high enough to precisely measure the high cutting forces. We investigate dynamic characteristics of the tool dynamometer theoretically and experimentally. The measurable frequency range of the developed tool dynamometer was higher than the commercial tool dynamometer, and the measured cutting force signals were not distorted at high-speed of above 60,000 rpm. The results showed that the developed dynamometer is able to measure the static and dynamic force components in high-speed micro milling.