Orthogonal cutting of TA6V alloys with chamfered tools: Analysis of tool–chip contact lengths

In aerospace industry, the materials constituting aircraft evolved considerably in recent decades. The choice of composite materials (carbon fiber–reinforced plastic or multi-material) reduces the weight of structures, but for critical parts that support important forces or temperature, the indicated materials are alloys based on nickel or titanium. Consumption of titanium for the aerospace industry is growing rapidly, and the new generations of aircraft show an increase in the percentage of titanium. The TA6V is mostly used for structural parts, especially for engine pylon. Due to its low thermal properties, it shows a poor machinability, leading tools to undergo severe wears. The aim of this work is to understand the relation between cutting conditions and chamfered tool geometries on chip formation and tool wear. Based on a model dedicated to the understanding of cutting process with chamfered tool and on experimental tests, this work will show the influence of feed, cutting speed, chamfer length and rake angle on tool–chip contact lengths. It will also show the influence of these parameters on the variability of these contacts within a same geometry or cutting condition. This will lead to another interpretation of tool wears and pressures on the rake face.