Particle Finite Element Simulation of Chip Formation in Cutting Processes

The formation of chips in cutting processes is characterised by large deformations and large configurational changes and therefore challenges established modeling techniques. To overcome these difficulties, the particle finite element method (PFEM) combines the benefits of discrete modeling techniques with methods based on continuum mechanics. In this work an outline of the PFEM, as well as an explanation of the finite element formulation are provided. The impact of the boundary detection on the structural integrity is studied. The numerical examples include a tensile test as well as cutting simulations. The paper is concluded by a comparison of cutting forces with analytical results.