Developments Steps of an Active Boring Bar for Industrial Application

In the manufacturing industry, boring bar vibration in internal turning is a frequent problem. Boring bars are often used to machine deep and precise holes in workpieces and are thus usually long and slender. The consequences of boring bar vibration are generally; reduced tool life, poor surface finish and high sound levels in the working environment. Boring bar vibration may however be attenuated using a suitable active vibration control system. Such system may for instance rely on feedback control and an active boring bar with embedded actuators. There are some steps between research results, having a controlled laboratory setup working, and applying the technology in industry, that are essential. Several prototypes of an active boring bar for industrial applications have been produced as part of this research. Different development phases and some challenges along the road to a successful product are discussed. Also, an active boring bar vibration control system in industry is presented and what challenges such a development may include.