Tool Engineering and Design Module 1 & 2
Tool Engineering and Design Module 1 & 2
In manufacturing, tools are instruments or devices used to facilitate a specific task, like cutting,
shaping, or holding materials. Tool design is the process of creating the specifications and drawings
for these tools, ensuring they are efficient, accurate, and suitable for their intended purpose. Tool
engineering encompasses the broader field of planning, designing, and implementing the tools and
processes needed for manufacturing a product, with a focus on optimizing production and
minimizing costs.
Tool:
In manufacturing, a tool is any device used to modify or manipulate materials to produce a desired
shape or form. Examples include cutting tools (like drills and saws), dies and molds for shaping
materials, jigs and fixtures for holding workpieces, and various other specialized equipment.
Tool Design:
Tool design involves the detailed planning and creation of the tools themselves. This includes
selecting appropriate materials, specifying dimensions and tolerances, and creating technical
drawings that guide their fabrication. It also considers factors like tool life, production volume, and
safety features.
Tool Engineering:
Tool engineering is a broader field that encompasses the entire process of developing the tools and
manufacturing processes for a product. It involves not only designing the tools but also selecting the
appropriate manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, casting, molding), planning the sequence of
operations, and ensuring that the entire production system is efficient and cost-effective.
1. Hand Tools: These are manually operated tools used for a variety of tasks. Examples include
hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, saws, and pliers.
Features: Portable, versatile, require manual force, and are relatively inexpensive.
2. Machine Tools: These are power-driven tools used for shaping and forming materials. Examples
include lathes, milling machines, drilling machines, and grinding machines.
Features:
Increased efficiency and speed, can handle larger workloads, but may require safety precautions.
Applications:
4. Cutting Tools: These tools are designed for removing material from a workpiece. They can be
single-point (e.g., lathe tools) or multi-point (e.g., milling cutters, drills).
Features: High precision, various shapes and sizes depending on the application, and made
of different materials like tool steel, carbides, or ceramics.
5. Data Analysis Tools: These tools are used for analysing and visualizing data. Examples include
Tableau and Collibra.
6. Construction Tools: These tools are used in the construction industry for building and assembling
structures. Examples include shovels, hammers, saws, and drills.
7. Educational Tools: These tools are used for teaching and learning. Examples include computers,
interactive whiteboards, and various software applications.
8. Other Tools: This category includes a wide variety of tools not specifically mentioned above, such
as files, pliers, and wrenches.
Tool Signature:
The tool signature is a standardized way to represent the geometry of a single-point cutting tool. It
typically follows a sequence of numbers representing different angles and the nose radius. For
example, a typical tool signature might be 0-7-6-8-15-16-0.8, where the numbers represent:
Back rake angle (0°): The angle between the tool face and a line parallel to the base,
measured in a plane perpendicular to the side cutting edge.
Side rake angle (7°): The angle between the tool face and a line parallel to the base,
measured in a plane perpendicular to the end cutting edge.
End relief angle (6°): The angle between the end flank and a line perpendicular to the base,
providing clearance for the tool.
Side relief angle (8°): The angle between the side flank and a line perpendicular to the base,
providing clearance for the tool.
End cutting edge angle (15°): The angle between the end cutting edge and the side of the
workpiece.
Side cutting edge angle (16°): The angle between the side cutting edge and the side of the
workpiece.
Nose radius (0.8 mm): The radius of the rounded corner at the tool tip.
Positive rake angles: Reduce cutting forces, improve chip formation, and reduce
power consumption.
Negative rake angles: Increase tool strength and are often used for heavy cuts or
with hard materials.
The choice depends on the material being cut and the desired cutting conditions.
Sufficient relief angles: Prevent rubbing between the tool flank and the workpiece,
reducing friction and heat.
Excessive relief angles: Can weaken the cutting edge and lead to premature tool
failure.
Side cutting edge angle: Affects chip width, cutting force distribution, and the
formation of built-up edge.
End cutting edge angle: Influences surface finish and tool life.
Nose Radius:
Larger nose radius: Improves surface finish and tool life but can increase cutting
forces.
Smaller nose radius: Reduces cutting forces but may lead to a poorer surface finish
and reduced tool life.
[Link]
Problem on Design of shank section for single point tool to account for
strength and rigidity. Watch you tube link
[Link]
Multi-point cutting tools
Multi-point cutting tools, like drills and reamers, feature multiple cutting edges that engage with the
workpiece simultaneously, enabling efficient material removal. Drills create holes, while reamers
enlarge and refine existing holes to precise dimensions. The design of these tools
involves considerations for cutting edge geometry, flute design for chip evacuation, and shank design
for secure mounting.
Drills:
Cutting Edge Geometry:
Drills typically have two main cutting edges formed by the intersection of the flutes and the drill
point.
Flute Design:
The flutes act as channels for chip evacuation and coolant delivery. Spiral flutes are common, with
helix angles optimized for different materials and drilling conditions.
Shank Design:
Drills can have straight shanks for general-purpose use or tapered shanks (like Morse taper) for
secure mounting in machine tool spindles.
Point Angle:
The point angle of the drill (e.g., 118 degrees for general-purpose drilling) affects the cutting action
and chip formation.
Reamers:
Cutting Edge Geometry:
Reamers have multiple cutting edges (more than two) along their length, designed for precise
material removal.
Flute Design:
Reamers can have straight or helical flutes, with helical flutes being beneficial for machining
interrupted cuts or when bridging keyways.
Shank Design:
Similar to drills, reamers can have straight or tapered shanks, with machine reamers often using
Morse tapers.
Cutting Edge Arrangement:
Reamers may have staggered cutting edges to minimize chatter and improve surface finish.
Clearance Angles:
Adequate clearance angles are crucial for preventing rubbing and ensuring efficient cutting action.
Design Considerations for Both:
Material:
The tool material (e.g., high-speed steel, carbide) is chosen based on the workpiece material and
cutting conditions.
Coating:
Coatings like TiN or TiCN can enhance hardness, reduce friction, and extend tool life.
Coolant:
Proper coolant application is essential for chip removal, heat dissipation, and tool life.
Rigidity:
The tool's rigidity is critical for maintaining accuracy and preventing vibrations during cutting.
Problem
[Link]
[Link]
Module-2
1. Peripheral Milling Cutters
Peripheral milling cutters are rotary cutting tools with teeth on the periphery of the cutter
body used for slab milling or side milling.
A. Design Elements
i. Material Selection
High-Speed Steel (HSS) – For general-purpose milling.
Carbide – For high-speed, heavy-duty applications.
Cermet or Ceramic – For high-temperature operations (dry cutting).
ii. Cutter Types
Plain Milling Cutters – Teeth on the periphery, used for surface milling.
Side and Face Cutters – Teeth on both periphery and sides.
Slitting Saws – Thin cutters for cutting slots.
iii. Geometry
Diameter (D): Depends on the machine capacity and depth of cut.
Width (W): Based on workpiece thickness.
Number of Teeth (Z): Determined by cutter diameter and feed rate.
Tooth Profile:
o Rake angle (positive, neutral, or negative).
o Relief angle (5–15° typically).
o Helix angle (0–45° for smoother cuts).
iv. Tooth Design
Straight Teeth – For easier manufacturing, used in smaller cutters.
Helical Teeth – Smoother operation, better chip removal.
Indexable Inserts – Replaceable cutting edges for cost efficiency.
v. Mounting Type
Arbor-mounted – Common in horizontal milling.
Shank-type – Mostly used in end mills, not peripheral cutters.
Develop, Design and Evalutae Custom Milling Cutter
1. Design:
Define the application:
Determine the specific material to be cut, the desired machining operation (e.g., slotting,
profiling), and the required surface finish.
Choose cutter type:
Select an appropriate milling cutter type (e.g., end mill, face mill, slot drill) based on the
application and desired cutting action.
Specify geometry:
Determine key parameters like cutting edge angle, rake angle, clearance angle, number of
flutes, and helix angle.
Select material:
Choose a suitable tool material (e.g., high-speed steel, carbide, ceramic) based on hardness,
wear resistance, and thermal properties.
CAD modeling:
Create a 3D model of the milling cutter using CAD software, incorporating the specified
geometry and dimensions.
Simulation:
Use CAM software and FEA to simulate the cutting process, analyzing stress distribution,
temperature, and forces acting on the tool.
2. Development and Manufacturing:
Generate toolpaths:
Create toolpaths for machining the cutter geometry using CAM software. This involves
defining the grinding wheel path and cutter position data.
CNC machining:
Use CNC machines to accurately manufacture the milling cutter based on the generated
toolpaths. This may involve grinding and other finishing processes.
Material removal simulation:
Employ Boolean operations in CAD to simulate the grinding wheel cutting into the raw
stock, allowing for verification of the cutter geometry.
Fabrication:
Fabricate the physical cutter using the CNC machining process and appropriate tooling.
3. Evaluation:
Cutting force and torque analysis:
Measure the forces and torque experienced by the cutter during machining using
dynamometers or other sensors.
Wear analysis:
Observe and quantify wear patterns on the cutting edges and surfaces using microscopy or
other techniques.
Surface finish measurement:
Evaluate the surface finish of the machined workpiece using surface roughness testers or
profilometers.
Tool life testing:
Conduct experiments to determine the effective cutting time of the tool under different
machining conditions.
Performance comparison:
Compare the performance of the custom cutter with existing standard cutters or other custom
designs.
Comparison Table
Parameter Peripheral Milling Cutter Broach
What is it?
A fundamental concern in metalworking is locating the part to be machined, punched, bent,
or stamped relative to the work platform (fixture). For example, a CNC machine tool starts its
process at a specific point relative to the fixture and proceeds from there. Hence, the
accuracy with which a part is machined is quite dependent on the accuracy with which it is
positioned in the fixture.
Accurate locating of not just one part, but each and every part that is loaded into the fixture
is crucial. Any variation in part location on the fixture adds to the dimensional tolerance that
must be assigned to the finished parts.
Additionally, the method of supporting and securing the part in the fixture affects not only
dimensional tolerances, but surface finishes as well. This is true because improper
supporting or clamping can temporarily or permanently deform the part. Hence, techniques
for supporting and clamping must be considered together with the method of locating in
order to assure repeatability from part-to-part.
Locating of a part to be machined is a three-step process:
1. Supporting
2. Locating (positioning)
3. Holding (clamping)
First Plane
Geometry tells us that three points are required to define a plane. This is the "3" in 3-2-1. So,
three specific points are used to define the first plane. Fewer than three points cannot
define a plane, and in the real world dimensional tolerances mean that four or more points
will not be coplanar. A real-world, less than ideally perfect part placed on four or more
reference points will, in fact, rest on only three of the points due to its less than perfect
surface. Different parts may rest on different combinations of three points, resulting in
variation between finished parts. A stool can be used to illustrate this concept. A two-legged
stool would certainly be unstable. A three-legged stool sits rock-solid. A four-legged stool is
often found to rock. In the illustration, a three dimensional part, represented by a cube, is
placed on a datum plane defined by three support points. The part’s six degrees of freedom
have now been reduced to three. It can still move along the X or Y axes, and it can still be
rotated about the Z axis. (The part cannot move along the Z axis because it is held against
the plane by clamping force.
TIPS
Use the largest surface of the part for the first ("primary") reference plane.
Position the three support points as far apart as possible.
If more than three support points are required to prevent deflection, make the
additional points adjustable.
Second Plane
A second plane, if it is perpendicular to the first, can be defined by two points, the "2" in 3-2-
1. The part is now constrained to one degree of freedom: movement along the Y axis. (The
part cannot move along the X or Z axes because it is held against the planes by clamping
force.)
TIPS
Use the largest surface of the part for the first ("primary") reference plane.
Position the three support points as far apart as possible.
If more than three support points are required to prevent deflection, make the
additional points adjustable.
Third Plane
A third plane, if it is perpendicular to both of the first two planes, can be defined by one
point, the "1" in 3-2-1. The part is now entirely constrained. It cannot move along or rotate
about the X, Y, or Z axes. (Remember that the part is held against each of the three planes by
clamping force.)
TIPS
If more than one support point is required to prevent deflection, make the additional
points adjustable.
Machined is Best
It’s best if the workpiece surfaces intended to contact the support points are machined. Cast
surfaces are usable, but then tend to create tolerance problems. Machined holes are the
number one choice. Two machined holes can be used to eliminate all but one degree of
freedom.
Repeatability
Repeatability
Repeatability is a paramount concern. It means that each part should be nearly identical to
each other part coming off the same fixture. "Nearly identical" actually has a specific,
quantifiable meaning: key dimensions of all parts produced on the same fixture must fall
within defined tolerances.
In order to stay within tolerances, it’s best if the workpiece surfaces intended to contact the
support points are machined. Cast surfaces are usable, but they tend to create tolerance
problems. Machined holes are the number one choice, because two machined holes can be
used to eliminate all but one degree of freedom.
The next best feature to use for consistent locating is machined surfaces at right angles. The
"machined surface" desired here can simply be a tab or small flat specifically included for
locating purposes.
Repeatability is achieved through application of the 3-2-1 method to the three aspects of the
locating process:
1. Supporting
2. Locating (positioning)
3. Holding
Supporting
The part is supported from "below" with reference to the Z axis. (Introduction of the
first reference plane.)
Gravity positions the part against the support locator.
Provide adjustable auxiliary support points as needed to prevent deflection.
Vertical location with respect to the fixture is now established
The part is positioned horizontally, in the X-Y plane. (Introduction of the second and
third reference planes.)
Holding
The part is clamped against fixed locators. Therefore, a known and unvarying position
of the part is maintained with respect to the X, Y, and Z axes.
One strap clamp or clamp arm will restrict the workpiece in three dimensions due to
friction between the workpiece and clamp. However, friction alone may not be
enough to prevent the workpiece from moving during machining.
Cutting forces will not move a properly supported and clamped part.
Locating
The part is positioned horizontally, in the X-Y plane. (Introduction of the second and
third reference planes).
The core principles of clamping involve firmly securing a workpiece against locators while
resisting forces without causing distortion or damage, and ensuring ease of operation and
minimal setup time. Effective clamping also considers vibration resistance and proper force
distribution.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Firm and Distortion-Free Clamping:
Clamps must hold the workpiece securely against locating surfaces, preventing
movement during machining or other processes.
The clamping force should be sufficient to withstand cutting forces and other
external forces without causing deformation or damage to the workpiece.
2. Force Distribution and Support:
Clamping force should be directed towards the strongest part of the workpiece or
directly over supports or locators to prevent bending or distortion.
Consider using contact pads or pressure pads to distribute the clamping force over a
larger area, especially for delicate or soft workpieces.
3. Easy and Efficient Operation:
Clamps should be designed for quick and easy operation, minimizing setup time and
maximizing efficiency.
For high-production environments, quick-acting clamps are essential.
4. Vibration Resistance:
Clamping mechanisms, especially those using wedges or cams, should be designed to
tighten under vibration, not loosen.
5. Appropriate Clamping Force:
Use the minimum clamping force necessary to hold the workpiece securely, avoiding
excessive force that could damage the part.
6. Consideration of Workpiece Material:
For soft or fragile materials, use clamping mechanisms that spread the clamping
force or incorporate protective pads to prevent damage.
7. Proper Clamp Selection:
Choose the appropriate clamp type (e.g., screw clamp, toggle clamp, swing clamp)
based on the specific application, workpiece geometry, and required clamping force.
8. 3-2-1 Principle:
When locating a workpiece, the 3-2-1 principle (also known as the six-point
positioning principle) is often used. This involves using three locators on a primary
plane, two on a secondary plane, and one on a tertiary plane to restrict all six
degrees of freedom of the workpiece.