Force and Specific Energy in Natural Rocks Cutting by Four-Axis Machine

Abstract

This study used a four-axis computer controlled machine to determine the cutting forces (C f), specific cutting energy (S c) and specific energy (S e) affecting the processability of natural rocks. A total of 17 types of natural rocks were categorized according to their geological formations. This study consisted of three parts: (1) experimental measurement of the C f resulting from processing natural rocks using a 6.0-mm diameter end mill cutting tool and a four-axis machine; (2) calculation of C f ,S c and S e values; and (3) statistical analysis of the parameters. In terms of C f ,S c and S e values, a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) was observed among a depth of cut (d p) and feed speed (V a). It was found that the parameters that affected the processability of natural rocks were d p and V a. Accordingly, the processability of natural rocks processing type, d p and V a was found that affected. Simple linear regression was performed to examine the relationship between physicomechanical properties, and between C f ,S e and S c values. As a result, regression equations were developed in consideration of the physicomechanical properties of natural rocks and the C f ,S c and S e equation for the prediction of the efficiency of computer numerical control (CNC) machines.