Stochastic simplified modelling of abrasive waterjet footprints

Torrubia, P. Lozano; Billingham, John; Axinte, Dragos A.

Abstract

Abrasive micro-waterjet processing is a non-conventional machining method that can be used to manufacture complex shapes in difficult-to-cut materials. Predicting the effect of the jet on the surface for a given set of machine parameters is a key element of controlling the process. However, the noise of the process is significant, making it difficult to design reliable jet-path strategies that produce good quality parts via controlled-depth milling. The process is highly unstable and has a strong random component that can affect the quality of the workpiece, especially in the case of controlled-depth milling. This study describes a method to predict the variability of the jet footprint for different jet feed speeds. A stochastic partial differential equation is used to describe the etched surface as the jet is moved over it, assuming that the erosion process can be divided into two main components: a deterministic part that corresponds to the average erosion of the jet, and a stochastic part that accounts for the noise generated at different stages of the process. The model predicts the variability of the trench profiles to within<8%. These advances could enable abrasive micro-waterjet technology as a suitable technology for controlled-depth milling.

Citation

Torrubia, P. L., Billingham, J., & Axinte, D. A. (2016). Stochastic simplified modelling of abrasive waterjet footprints. Proceedings of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences, 472(2186), https://doi.org/10.1098/rspa.2015.0836

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 14, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Feb 1, 2016
• Publication Date: Feb 17, 2016
• Deposit Date: Jul 6, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 6, 2016
• Journal: Proceedings of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences
• Print ISSN: 1364-5021
• Electronic ISSN: 1471-2946
• Publisher: The Royal Society
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 472
• Issue: 2186
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1098/rspa.2015.0836
• Keywords: abrasive waterjet, stochastic modelling, machining, erosion
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/776143
• Publisher URL: http://rspa.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/472/2186/20150836
• Additional Information: Lozano Torrubia P, Billingham J, Axinte DA. 2016 Stochastic; simplified modelling of abrasive waterjet footprints. Proc. R. Soc. A 472: 20150836. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspa.2015.0836