Instrumented clamping device and numerical simulations to study machining distortion

Machining part distortion is due to residual stresses induced by previous manufacturing processes. This study aims to evaluate the influence of machining conditions on AISI 316L plate distortion. Therefore, a special experimental device with force sensors integrated in the clamping system and numerical model of distortion were developed. Residual stresses due to previous machining processes were measured using a layer removal method and neutron diffraction technique. Then, distributions of these residual stresses were integrated in a developed model of machining distortion, which considers the clamping and machining sequence effects after each stage of the toolpath. A comparison of the experimental and numerical results revealed that the finite element method can adequately predict machining distortion. The results also suggest that clamping and machining sequence can affect part distortion.