Tool path generation functionality and ultrasonic assisted machining of ceramic components using multi-axis machine tools

Machining of complex shaped components in various materials, including ceramics, is an important challenge for many industries (automotive, medical, general mechanical engineering,..). Multi-axis machine tools (fiveaxis milling/grinding, multi-axis turn/mill centers) offer the necessary flexibility to perform these machining operations. This paper describes on-going and planned research activities at the K.U.Leuven on machining processes using multi-axis machine tools. First, the paper describes some recent developments in tool path generation functionality for multi-axis machining operations. Second, ultrasonic assisted machining of various ceramic materials (Al2O3, ZrO2, SiC,..) on a multi-axis machining platform is discussed. Finally, this paper also describes planned research activities to be performed on a recently installed multi-axis machine tool, the Mori Seiki NL2000Y/500.