A study of the influence of cutting parameters on micromilling of steel with cubic boron nitride (CBN) tools

It has been concluded in previous studies that Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) tools have greater wear resistance and superior tool life than other tool materials used in conventional milling, due to chemically stability at high temperatures, high abrasive wear resistance and high degree of hardness; however no research has been conducted about its performance on micro milling. Burr formation has a direct negative effect on product quality and assembly automation in micro milling, therefore adoption of machining strategies and influencing factors were investigated intending to reduce burr formation. This paper also aims at analyzing the interference of cutting parameters on micro milling with CBN tools, such as the influence of cutting speed and feed per tooth on the surface quality and tool life. These outcomes enable us to know which parameters and strategies must be used to achieve better results when micro milling steel with CBN tools.