Size effect is a critical factor that needs to be considered when conducting micro mechanical machining processes. In this paper, a cutting process simulation technology is used to simulate a single tooth’s engagement with workpiece from the entry point to the exit point in a slot milling operation. The obtained specific cutting forces from simulation are employed to analyze the size effect and the minimum chip thickness with variable radii of tool edges. Micro machining experiments with different machining conditions are implemented by use of a high speed and high precision machining spindle to investigate the size effect on machined surface integrity and burr width. The optimal cutting parameters have been analyzed based on the simulation and cutting test results.

This paper is to experimentally investigate the mechanical micro machining properties of AL6061-T6 using tungsten-carbide micro end mills. The cutting simulation based on Finite Element Analysis (FEA) method is also conducted to estimate cutting forces, cutting temperature, and minimum chip thicknesses. The simulation results are used for the determination of experimental machining conditions such as depth of cut, feed rates and cutting speeds. A number of slot micro-milling experiments were performed using 400um diameter micro end mills on a 3 Axis CNC machining center attached with a high precision and high speed spindle unit. The machined surface quality, geometric feature shape, cutting burr generation as well as build-up edges are observed in the cutting experiments. Optimum cutting parameters for a better surface quality and smaller burr sizes are suggested.