The Dynamic Characteristics of Epoxy Resin Bonded Machine Tool Structures

Summary

A new way of fabricating machine tool structures was developed as an alternative to welding. It involves the use of epoxy resin as a bonding agent between structural components. The overarm of a horizontal milling machine was manufactured according to this technique and its performance under dynamic tests and cutting conditions was compared with, respectively, those of a cast and of a welded overarm. The bonded overarm permitted a substantially higher metal removal rate before the onset of chatter, this being due to its very much higher damping capacity. Production cost estimates of the bonded overarm were considerably below those of the welded type. The fabrication technique developed can be used for modifying existing structures. An example is discussed.