Development and performance evaluation of miniaturised machine tool (MMT) system

Product miniaturisation has brought into the forefront a need for the manufacture of micro/meso-scale high precision components in sufficient quantities at low cost from materials like glass, ceramics, metals and alloys, composites, plastics etc. and with features that existing silicon-etching methods cannot meet. In the absence of a continuum of manufacturing capabilities that spans from nano-to-macro range, there has been a strong interest in fabricating micro scale components through mechanical cutting process. First part of this paper deals with the design and construction details of an indigenously developed three-axis vertical-type miniaturised machine tool (MMT) system. In the next part, geometrical errors of the MMT measured using laser interferometer system have been reported and discussed. Finally, performance of the MMT is evaluated by conducting dynamic stiffness and machining competence tests. Analyses of the test results show that the developed MMT is suitable for meso- and micro-manufacturing. Copyright © 2009, Inderscience Publishers.