Measurement and simulation of regenerative chatter in diamond turning

In this work, the stability of outer diameter turning is explored to extend previous results from the orthogonal turning geometry. The work begins with a numerical approach to the determination of the stability limit using a nonlinear chip area model. A complete experimental verification follows for turning of 6061-T aluminum with single crystal, synthetic diamond tools. Although diamond-turning operations are not particularly susceptible to chatter, the cutting process is well understood, and experimental tests may be conveniently carried out. Recent work to define the specific cutting energy better at small depths of cut is incorporated. The results show qualitative differences from the orthogonal cutting geometry. The role of machine parameters and tool geometry is explored using the verified model. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.