Tool path generation for precision roughing of BLISKS via abrasive waterjet machining

Official URL: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cirp.2025.04.046

Manufacturing process chains of bladed disks are energy intense. Heat resistant properties of Inconel alloys make them very challenging to cut by conventional milling at roughing conditions, where excessive cutting forces and vibration arise. Abrasive waterjet machining (AWJM) offers several benefits in cutting of such materials. In the literature, 5-axis AWJM of blisks is not well studied for machining strategy, parameter selection and tool path generation. This paper presents a unified approach for development of 5-axis AWJM roughing of blisks. The proposed approach is demonstrated on a representative part made of Inconel 718.