What causes the tools to vibrate?

Definition and impact of tool chatter

Tool chatter, in layman's terms, refers to the vibration phenomenon generated by the tool during the processing process. This vibration will directly affect the cutting effect of the tool, resulting in scratches, dents and other defects on the processed surface. Tool chatter may also cause the tool to wear faster, and even increase the failure rate of mechanical equipment, reducing overall production efficiency.

Tool chatter is not only common in traditional processing fields such as milling and turning, but also in emerging technologies such as CNC machining centers and laser cutting. Understanding the causes of tool chatter and taking effective measures has become an important part of improving processing quality and ensuring the normal operation of equipment.

Causes of tool chatter

Tool chatter is often caused by the combined action of multiple factors, which can be summarized as follows:

Improper tool selection: Inappropriate tool materials and geometric shapes may cause greater forces during cutting, thereby causing tool chatter.

Insufficient rigidity of machine tools: Insufficient rigidity of machine tool structure will cause large deformation under the action of cutting force, resulting in tool vibration.

Irrational cutting parameters: Excessive cutting speed, feed rate or inappropriate cutting depth may cause tool chatter.

Unstable tool clamping: Insufficient tool clamping method and force may cause tool vibration during processing.

Processing material characteristics: Differences in hardness, toughness and other characteristics of different materials will affect the reaction during cutting and cause tool vibration.

Preventive measures for tool vibration

In order to effectively reduce the occurrence of tool vibration, enterprises should take corresponding measures from multiple aspects:

Reasonable selection of tools: When selecting tools, appropriate tool materials and geometric shapes should be selected according to processing requirements and material characteristics to ensure the best performance of tools during cutting.

Improve machine tool rigidity: It is very important to select high-rigidity machine tools, especially in processing with large cutting loads, the stability of the machine tool will directly affect the processing effect.

Optimize cutting parameters: According to different material characteristics and processing requirements, reasonably set the cutting speed, feed rate and cutting depth to avoid unnecessary tool vibration.

Strengthen tool clamping: Ensure that the tool is clamped firmly. Vibration caused by improper clamping can be avoided by selecting appropriate clamping tools and methods.

Regularly maintain equipment: Regularly inspect and maintain machine tools and cutting tools to ensure that the mechanical equipment is in good condition, thereby reducing the possibility of tool chattering.