Part 2 ‑ Machining Titanium

The Baffling Issue of Tool-Bending Moment

If you’ve machined titanium, or Ti 6Al-4V more specifically, then you’ve likely had an “inexplicable” tool-bending moment problem that’s made you scratch your head.

A tool-bending moment happens when side force is applied to a cutter and is directly linked to radial cutting force and tool length. Too much force (torque) and the tool will bend.  Calculating the maximum torque that can be applied based on spindle speed and tool length can help you avoid future tool-bending moments.

When trying to avoid future tool-bending moments, the initial knee-jerk reaction might be to opt for a shorter tool length and slower spindle speed. But that’s not always the right choice. In fact, finding this illusive “sweet spot” for tool length and speed can prove to be a challenge for many titanium machinists.

In this enlightening white paper, we’ll discuss how the process you’re running today may slowly be damaging your machine. And we’ll show you how being too conservative with your spindle speed and tool length may be eating up precious productivity.  You’ll understand exactly how to calculate the limits of your machine so that you can balance productivity and process stability to create the greatest long-term profitability.

One of the biggest unknowns in machine limits is by far bending moment. Download this white paper to fully unlock your machine’s potential, optimize production, and save yourself from future frustration.