Investigation on the ultrasonic induced material softening in machining steel

• Applicant: Dr.-Ing. Oltmann Riemer
• Subject Area: Metal-Cutting and Abrasive Manufacturing Engineering
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 511868434

In this project, the impact of the known effect of material softening under the action of ultrasonic energy on a machining process is investigated. Although ultrasound-assisted machining is already used in the industry, the precise effects of ultrasonic energy without the dynamic kinematics of a vibrating tool are not yet known. Therefore, a test setup is implemented within the project that allows a superimposition of a machining process with an ultrasonic field that can be adjusted in intensity and frequency. The effects of ultrasonic field on the machining process are characterized on the workpiece in terms of surface and subsurface properties, as well as tool wear. The main challenge of this project lies in the implementation of the experimental setup, while the extensive characterization is labor-intensive. Therefore, within the few months, basic examinations to evaluate ultrasound-assisted machining will be carried out. The implementation of the experimental set-up as well as the investigations based on cutting experiments under a varied ultrasonic field follow.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants