MD simulations of ultraprecision machining of fcc monocrystals

In technical sciences, the term "machining" refers to the process of forming an object into a desired shape and size, with a desired quality of surface, by removing layers of its material by means of a cutting tool. The paper describes research on ultra-precision machining (UPM), where the abovementioned process takes place on the atomic level and involves systems (a machined object and a tool) several dozen nanometers in size. Three-dimensional computer simulations (virtual experiments) of UPM of monocrystalline copper with an infinitely hard tool were performed utilizing the classical molecular dynamics (MD) method with a many-body potential to describe the interatomic interactions. Among the examined issues were: the effect of the tool shape, machining speed and depth on the obtained workmaterial surfaces, and on the stresses, slip patterns and local temperature increases generated during the process.