A review on micro turning process

The paper comments on the potential for a new approach that combines the technologies to produce small machine tools for performing macro machining operations on large components. The paper also described micro fabrication systems, such as the micro-factory, and concluded that ‘many benefits will come from applying systematic approach to micro-engineering’; with the achievement of complete process integration. In the field of manufacturing, these machines offer more flexible solutions with the ability to work on different parts of a large structure. Some examples of these machines with applications in the aircraft, marine and power generation industries are discussed, along with some other specialist machine designs which can offer more flexible machining capabilities from the survey; a new micro turning system is realized on the basis of experience with previous prototype equipment. In this new system, a new point tool is applied to a micro turning at an elevated rotation speed. Through the measurement of cutting force under various cutting conditions, the possibility of reduction of reacting forces to a low level without deflection of the micro work was identified. The current efforts in mechanical micro-machining research and applications are surveyed and suggestions are given in the areas that should be examined and researched to the improvement of the process.