Prediction of Tool Wear in the Turning Process Using the Spectral Center of Gravity

International audienceThe recent increase in machining productivity is closely related to longer tool life and good surface quality. In the present study, an experimental technique is proposed to evaluate the performance of a cemented carbide inset during the machining of AISI D3 steel. The aim of this technique is to find a relationship between the vibratory state of the cutting tool and the corresponding wear during machining in order to detect the beginning of the transition period to excessive wear. A spectral indicator named spectral center of gravity, SCG, is proposed to highlight the three phases of tool wear using the spectra of the accelerations measured. Very promising results are obtained which can be used to underpin an industrial monitoring system capable of detecting the onset of transition to excessive wear and alerting the user of the end of the tool’s life. The purpose of this study is to review the vibration analysis techniques and to explore their contributions, advantages and drawbacks in monitoring of tool wear