High-efficiency section-by-section slotting method for 4+1-axis NC machining of high-wrap impeller channel

High-efficiency rough machining method for the high-wrap impeller channel is the key path to enhance the whole impeller machining efficiency and shorten the production cycle. Aiming at the rough machining of high-wrap impeller channel, a high-efficiency slotting method for 4+1-axis section-by-section NC machining of high-wrap impeller channel is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the basic concept of the method is discussed from the machining principle and the five-axis machining features of the high-wrap impeller are analyzed. Secondly, the largest available tool of each cutting point is determined according to the structural features of the machine. The division of the high-wrap impeller channel machining region is made based on the analysis of the processing characteristics of each cutting point using the clustering algorithm. Finally, the largest available tool and the tool orientation in form of 4+1-axis of each subsection are calculated. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method obtains linearly changed rotational coordinates along the slotting path, material removal volume increased by 32.5% than the traditional slotting method, the impeller slotting machining stability and efficiency are obviously improved.