Design and Study of All-ceramic Micro End Mills with Diameters ≤ 50 μm

The overall goal of the research project is the first-time development and application of fully ceramic micro milling tools with diameters ≤ 50 μm. In analogy to macro cutting tools, the novel ceramic end mills are expected to reduce tool wear. In addition, improved surface quality of the workpieces, reduced burr formation and a higher tool life are expected. For this purpose, suitable cutting ceramics are selected and wear investigations carried out. On this basis, the tool geometry of the fully ceramic end mills is developed. The micro end mills produced via grinding are used for milling tests. The results are compared with milling results of existing cemented carbide end mills produced in-house.