Experimental investigation on tool path patterns in controlled depth abrasive water jet machining

Official URL: https://www.hsm2019.cz/wp-content/uploads/HSM2019_Book-of-Abstract.pdf

Abrasive waterjet machining (AWJM) is used for machining of difficult-to-cut materials, i.e. very soft or very hard, which may be problematic when conventional milling is used. Unlike potential benefits, AWJM is mostly used for 2D through thickness cutting purposes. Controlled depth milling with AWJ is relatively rare, which can be achieved by adjusting the feed rate. In this paper, tool path patterns, for extended use of AWJ in controlled depth is experimentally studied. It is aimed to identify tool path strategies to achieve even, smooth cut quality in terms of the removed material depth. So that, AWJM can be used in a milling manner for roughing purposes of difficult-to-cut materials.