FEM based investigation on thrust force and torque during Al7075-T6 drilling

As modern industry advances, the demand for more time and cost effective machining is rising. In order to achieve high levels of standard during machining it is necessary to employ sophisticated techniques for precise prediction of various important parameters that relate to the machining processes. Such technique is the implementation of finite element modelling (FEM) which can become a valuable tool for researchers and industry engineers alike. In this work, the 3D modelling of Al7075-T6 drilling process with solid carbide tooling is being presented. DEFORM3D™ finite element analysis (FEA) software was utilized for simulating the drilling process based on frequently used cutting conditions; cutting speed of 100m/min and feed of 0.15mm/rev, 0.20mm/rev and 0.25mm/rev respectively. In order to approximate the complex phenomena that occur during drilling, the most critical factors were considered in the presented model such as the developed friction, heat transfer and damage interaction between the tool and the workpiece. Additionally, a validation of the generated results for thrust force and torque was performed by comparing the simulated results with experimental data. Three drilling experiments were carried out with the aid of a CNC machining center and a four component dynamometer in order to acquire the experimental values of thrust force and torque. Most of the simulations yielded results in accordance to the experimental ones with the agreement percentage reaching 95% in most cases for both the thrust force and torque, confirming the validity of the models and the accuracy of the simulated results