Productivity and Superficial Quality of an Aspherical Die Using CAD/CAM

Résumé

Nowadays, it is hard to imagine modern industry without the manufacturing and design software aided by
computer, known as CAD/CAM, once the search for excellence in complex geometry parts, reduced time,
quality assurance and interchangeability is increasing. Within this quest, the CAD/CAM platform has become
a significant factor in manufacturing, especially on complex surfaces parts, mainly because of superficial
quality, reliability and product competitiveness. Defined as surface within one or more non-flat surfaces
or non-square, usually represented by parametric models, the freeform surfaces are very complex, requiring
the control of three or more axes simultaneously, making the CAM tool indispensable. Tests were carried out
by milling of aspherical cavities, on VP100 steel samples, with cemented carbide ball nose inserts with
TiAlN coating. Two cutting strategies – zig-zag and spiral – and two finishing (CAM) strategies – parallel
plans and Z level – were also investigated. Final Surface quality, tool productivity and tool wear were related
to machining time, surface roughness (Ra, Rz, Rku and Rsk) and tool wear (VBmax). Results showed that
the chosen strategy (tool path) it is the main factor to productivity.
Keywords: CAD/CAM; Superficial Quality; Milling; Finishing