Experimental study of the computer aided tool path generation for 3D machining of the mold core and cavity

Computer Aided Design, Manufacturing and Engineering (CAD/CAM/CAE) softwares are widely used in machining of the mold core and the mold cavity. Four different CAD/CAM softwares (Catia, Cimatron, ProEngineer and Unigraphics) that are conspicuous programs in mold design and manufacturing industry, are preferred in the scope of this study. In these CAD/CAM softwares, total six different machining methods (Zigzag, Contour Parallel, Part Parallel, Trochoidal, Radial and Spiral) are selected in three types of machining operations (rough, semi-finish, finish) for machining core and cavity plates which have the surface geometry of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk?s face. The theoretical and experimental surface roughness values and machining times were obtained and the suitable tool path strategy was experimentally evaluated. Results indicated that the contour parallel type was the acceptable tool path in respect of the minimum machining time. Also, same tool path strategy was recommended for the finish milling in which it reduced the surface roughness. Key Words : Computer Aided Toolpath Generation, Mold Core and Mold Cavity, Machining Time, Surface Roughness