Machining oil grooves in ptfe sliding pads requires careful consideration of material properties, tool selection, and safety measures. PTFE's low friction and thermal stability make it suitable for machining, but its softness demands precision to avoid deformation or dust hazards. Guidelines emphasize maintaining structural integrity by keeping grooves within the pad's thickness and away from edges, while tool geometry and cutting parameters ensure clean finishes without excessive heat or vibration.
Key Points Explained:
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Groove Design Constraints
- Edge Distance: Oil grooves must be at least 6 mm from the edges to prevent weakening the pad’s structural integrity.
- Non-Piercing: Grooves should not penetrate through the PTFE entirely, preserving load-bearing capacity.
- Flexibility in Geometry: The form (e.g., straight, spiral) and depth of grooves are customizable based on application needs, similar to machining cast iron.
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Tool Selection
- Material: Carbide-tipped or Stellite-tipped tools are preferred for their sharpness and wear resistance, reducing frictional heat.
- Tool Geometry: A positive top rake angle (0–15°) minimizes cutting forces, while regular resharpening maintains precision.
- Method: CNC machining is ideal for complex groove patterns, offering control over heat generation and material deformation.
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Machining Parameters
- Speed/Feed Rates: Optimal cutting speeds range from 200–500 SFM (surface feet per minute), with feed rates of 0.002–0.010 inches per revolution.
- Surface Finish: Avoid excessive pressure or vibration to prevent rough finishes; PTFE’s softness requires gentle handling.
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Safety Measures
- Dust Control: PTFE machining produces micro dust, necessitating masks or coolant use to prevent inhalation hazards.
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Material Considerations
- Thermal Stability: PTFE withstands temperatures from -328°F to 500°F, but machining heat should be minimized to avoid localized softening.
- Low Friction: Its inherent slipperiness (coefficient of friction: 0.05–0.20) reduces tool wear but demands sharp tools for clean cuts.
By adhering to these guidelines, manufacturers can achieve precise, functional oil grooves in PTFE pads while ensuring safety and material performance.
Summary Table:
| Key Aspect | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Groove Design | - Keep grooves ≥6mm from edges, non-piercing, customizable geometry. |
| Tool Selection | Use carbide/Stellite-tipped tools; positive rake angle (0–15°); CNC preferred. |
| Machining Parameters | Speed: 200–500 SFM; feed rate: 0.002–0.010 in/rev; avoid excessive pressure. |
| Safety | Control PTFE dust with masks/coolant; minimize heat to prevent softening. |
| Material Properties | PTFE’s low friction (0.05–0.20) and thermal stability (-328°F to 500°F). |
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