An experimental study of CNC machine tool feed drive limits and cycle time prediction for a 3-axis milling operation

The desired goal of this experimental research is to improve 3-axis machining operations in terms of cycle time by optimizing feed-rates while taking CNC drive limits, such as maximum acceleration and jerk capabilities, into consideration. In order to achieve this, CNC drives’ velocity, acceleration and jerk limitations are measured with laser interferometer and laser displacement sensor. According to data obtained from experiments, at each cutter location, an answer to the question whether the desired feed-rate reached or not is found. With the new data obtained, a better approximate cycle time is predicted.