Cryogenic Rotary Ultrasonic Machining of Titanium Alloys

Titanium alloys are utilized especially in applications that require a good combination of high strength, low mass and good corrosion resistance in aggressive environments. However, mechanical properties prejudge titanium alloys to hard machinability. Machining of titanium alloys is usually accompanied by cooling with liquids or gasses. One of the most effective cooling approaches is cooling by liquid nitrogen. Liquid nitrogen decreases temperature of tool, but also increases strength, hardness and brittleness of workpiece. One of the most suitable machining methods to machine hard and brittle materials is ultrasonic machining. In this article, rotary ultrasonic machining of titanium alloys under cryogenic conditions is analyzed.