Effect of Machining Conditions and Phosphorus Content in Nano-Precision Machining of Electroless Nickel

Abstract

The surface finish of a machined workpiece mainly depends on machining conditions, workpiece material and tool geometry if the rigidity of machine is perfect. This paper deals with the effect of feed rate, Spindle speed, depth of cut and phosphorus content on ultraprecision machining of electroless nickel in terms of surface appearance, roughness and cutting forces. It was found of significance that lower federate, although incurring longer machining time, produced better surface finish and lower cutting force, spindle speed seems to have a critical value for best surface roughness and cutting forces increase with increase of spindle speed. Depth of cut (2µm-10µm) doesn’t show significant effect on surface roughness but cutting forces increase with increase of depth of cut. Also of significance, increased phosphorus content makes workpiece softer, produces better surface finish and lower cutting forces.