Study of surface topography in milling of 6351 T6 aluminum alloy

Abstract

In milling the surface texture is generated by the superposition of curved surfaces resulting from the passage of an edge is removed by the subsequent which in turn makes a waviness. The phase difference between the waves is used as indicative of the presence of vibrations that mainly result in a poor surface finish. Topography parameters (roughness and waviness) represent a relative measure of the process stability. This study’s objective is to describe the surface topography, from systematic trials in milling of aluminum alloy 6351T6 with solid carbide end mills different only with respect to surface finish. The results were based on acquired vertical roughness parameters (Ra, Rq, Rz, and Rt) to different cutting conditions.