MILLING TOOL AND PRODUCTION METHOD FOR A MILLING TOOL

Abstract

A milling tool, preferably a fir tree cutter, having an operating area which is rotatable about an operating axis of rotation for milling a workpiece and comprises a milling edge which extends transversely to the circumferential direction (U) of an operating axis of rotation, wherein the at least one milling edge includes at least one milling edge portion in which a milling edge profile (P), which is defined by the radial distance (F) between the milling edge and the operating axis of rotation along the milling edge, comprises a non-linear progression, wherein the milling edge in the milling edge portion comprises a chip space, which extends radially inward toward the operating axis of rotation in relation to the milling edge and comprises a chip space base which follows the milling edge profile (P) at least in portions in the milling edge portion with the non-linear milling edge profile (P).

Claims

1-15. (canceled)

16. A milling tool, in particular an end mill, a finishing cutter, preferably a fir tree cutter or bore milling cutter, having an operating area which is rotatable about an operating axis of rotation for milling a workpiece and comprises at least one milling edge which extends transversely to the circumferential direction (U) of the operating axis of rotation, wherein: at least one of the at least one milling edge includes at least one milling edge portion in which a milling edge profile (P), which is defined by the radial distance (F) between the milling edge and the operating axis of rotation along the milling edge, comprises a non-linear progression; the milling edge in the milling edge portion has assigned thereto a chip space, which extends radially inward toward the operating axis of rotation in relation to the milling edge and comprises a chip space base which follows the milling edge profile (P) at least in portions in the milling edge portion with the non-linear milling edge profile (P); at least one of the at least one milling edge, in particular the milling edge profile (P), is realized on a milling lug which extends transversely to the circumferential direction (U) at least in part above the operating area; and the milling lug, measured in the circumferential direction (U), comprises a predefined width (E) which is substantially constant in the progression along the milling edge.

17. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: a radial distance (H, B) or a distance measured perpendicularly to the milling edge between milling edge and chip space base along the milling edge is substantially constant at least within the milling edge portion, in particular in such a manner that a chip surface, realized between chip space base and milling edge in the milling edge portion, comprises a substantially constant width in the progression along the milling edge.

18. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein at least one milling edge, preferably each milling edge, includes multiple of the milling edge portions; and the multiple milling edge portions are arranged along the respective milling edge one behind another, in particular directly one behind another.

19. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: the ratio between the number of milling edges arranged consecutively per revolution in the circumferential direction (U) with reference to the operating axis of rotation and the minimum profile diameter (D) of the operating area is between 0.2 and 1.0; optionally, multiple of the milling edge portions are realized as cutting teeth which are realized, in particular, in a dome-shaped manner with reference to the operating axis of rotation; and the ratio between the number of cutting teeth arranged consecutively per revolution in the circumferential direction (U) with reference to the operating axis of rotation and the minimum profile diameter (D) of the operating area is between 0.2 and 1.0.

20. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: a free surface extends to at least one of the at least one milling edge in opposite direction to the operating direction of rotation (R) of the milling tool, which free surface optionally comprises, in the circumferential direction (U) a predefined width (E) which, in particular constant in the progression along the milling edge; optionally, the free surface is slanted with reference to the circumferential direction (U) thereby realizing a predefined free surface angle (W1) which, in particular, is substantially constant in the progression along the milling edge, wherein the free surface angle (W1) is preferably within the range of between 0° and 15°.

21. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: multiple milling edges are realized in the circumferential direction (U) with reference to the operating axis of rotation, and milling edges, which follow directly one after another in the circumferential direction (U), are arranged at a separation angle (T) within the range of between 8° and 120°; and/or at least two of the multiple milling edges are geometrically congruent to one another with reference to a rotation about the operating axis of rotation.

22. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: at least one of the at least one milling edge, preferably all the milling edges, comprises/comprise an angle of twist within the range of between 5° and 50°, preferably 20°.

23. The milling tool as claimed in claim 19, wherein: the separation angle/angles (T) and angle/angles of twist are set up in such a manner that at least one milling tool sector is present in which, when viewed in axial projection with reference to the operating axis of rotation, are located a first cutting tooth of a first milling edge and a second cutting tooth of a second milling edge; the first milling edge is spaced from the second milling edge in the circumferential direction (U) by at least one times the separation angle (T); and the milling tool sector covers a circumferential angle which is smaller than or equal to the separation angle (T).

24. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein for at least one, preferably for each of the milling edges, the milling tool has a rake angle (W3) within the range of between −3° and 24° and/or a wedge angle (W2) within the range of between 51° and 93°.

25. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: the at least one milling edge, preferably all milling edges, comprises/comprise a milling edge profile (P) which extends/extend, measured in and parallel to the operating axis of rotation, over a predefined axial length of the operating area; the at least one, preferably all, milling edge/s comprise a milling edge profile (P) which corresponds to a, in particular wave-shaped, fir tree profile; and the fir tree profile includes at least two, preferably at least three peaks and/or troughs.

26. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein: the operating area comprises a basic body from which the at least one milling edge, measured radially to the operating axis of rotation or perpendicularly to the milling edge, is spaced; the basic body includes one or multiple shoulder segments between milling edges adjacent in the circumferential direction (U), wherein the contour of the shoulder segments follows the milling edge profile (P) at least in portions; and each shoulder segment extends in the circumferential direction (U) with reference to the operating axis of rotation between a milling edge and/or between the chip base assigned to the milling edge and a free surface edge adjacent the milling edge in the operating direction of rotation (U).

27. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, including a basic body having one or multiple shoulder segments between milling edges adjacent in the circumferential direction (U) wherein: multiple consecutive milling edge portions are realized in the circumferential direction (U) of the operating axis of rotation with reference to at least one axial position along the operating axis of rotation; and the basic body comprises: between milling edge portions adjacent in the circumferential direction (U), elevations, indentations, and/or flat and/or cylindrical portions which extend in the circumferential direction (U) and lie at the same, at least in part at a lower or higher radial level than the respectively adjacent chip space base; and/or a decreasing, increasing or non-varying radial height; and/or a pagoda-like form.

28. The milling tool as claimed in claim 16, including a basic body having one or multiple shoulder segments between milling edges adjacent in the circumferential direction (U). wherein: the basic body comprises multiple coolant and/or lubricant outlet openings which are preferably oriented radially to the operating axis of rotation; the outlet openings are optionally arranged in each case at least in part between a milling edge and/or a chip space and a free surface edge connected upstream in the operating direction of rotation (R); optionally opening planes of the outlet openings, when viewed radially to the operating axis of rotation, lie at the same height or at least in part higher than the respectively assigned chip space base; the coolant and/or lubricant outlet openings are optionally located, inside the shoulder segments; and at least two of the coolant and/or lubricant outlet openings are arranged at radially different heights.

29. A method for producing a milling tool having at least one milling edge and a chip space assigned to the milling edge, wherein the milling edge comprises a milling edge profile (P) with a progression which is non-linear in portions, the steps comprising: providing a milling tool blank; and producing the at least one milling edge and the associated chip space on the milling blank as a result of material removal, wherein: the material removal is effected in such a manner that in the case of the finished milling tool, a radial or perpendicular distance between milling edge and chip space base is substantially constant at least in portions; and at least one of at least one milling edge, in particular the milling edge profile (P), is realized on a milling lug which extends transversely to the circumferential direction (U) at least in part above the operating area such that the milling lug, measured in the circumferential direction (U), comprises a predefined width (E) which is substantially constant in the progression along the milling edge.

30. The method as claimed in claim 29, wherein: a milling method is used for machining the material; and/or the material removal is carried out in such a manner that each of the milling edges is realized on a milling lug which protrudes opposite above the basic body; and the contour of the basic body is realized corresponding to the milling edge profile (P) as a result of material removal between milling lugs adjacent in the circumferential direction.

Description

[0099] The invention is described in more detail below, in particular also with regard to further features and advantages, by way of the description of exemplary embodiments of a milling tool as examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0100] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a first variant of the milling tool;

[0101] FIG. 2 shows a cross sectional representation of the milling tool;

[0102] FIG. 3 shows a representation of a detail of the machining head of the milling tool according to FIG. 1;

[0103] FIG. 4 shows a diagram showing the milling edge profile and chip space base profile;

[0104] FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of part of an axial section of the machining head of the milling tool;

[0105] FIG. 6 shows a milling tool according to a second variant;

[0106] FIG. 7 shows a milling tool according to a third variant;

[0107] FIGS. 8 to 10 show parts of different milling edge profiles;

[0108] FIG. 11 shows a schematic side view of the milling tool in FIG. 6;

[0109] FIG. 12 shows an axial top view of the milling tool according to FIG. 11; and

[0110] FIG. 13 shows a side view of the milling tool according to FIG. 12.

[0111] Parts and components which correspond to one another in FIG. 1 to FIG. 13 are provided with reference symbols which correspond to one another.

[0112] FIG. 1 shows a milling tool 1 according to a first variant. The milling tool 1 of the embodiment shown is an end mill, in particular a finishing cutter, with a fir tree-shaped milling edge profile, or milling profile. Milling cutters of this type are also known as fir tree cutters.

[0113] The following description does relate to a fir tree cutter, however the features and characteristics described below, in particular relating to milling edge(s) and/or chip space or chip spaces are not limited to fir tree cutters but can also be applied and implemented in the case of other types of milling cutters.

[0114] The milling tool 1 includes a shank 2 and a machining head 3 connecting thereto. The shank 2 is realized for the clamping of the milling tool 1 in a clamping chuck (not shown).

[0115] For milling, for example for finishing, a workpiece (not shown), the clamped milling tool 1 is rotated by means of a drive coupled with the clamping chuck about the operating axis of rotation 4 (in particular also: tool axis), which coincides in the present case with the longitudinal axis of the milling tool 1, and the machining head is moved relative to the workpiece, for example, into engagement with the workpiece to generate the respectively desired milling structure.

[0116] The machining head 3 of the milling tool 1, in other words the operating area of the milling tool, includes in the circumferential direction U with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4, or in the operating direction of rotation R with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4, multiple milling edges 5 which extend transversely to the circumferential direction U or operating direction of rotation R.

[0117] The milling edges 5 as can be seen from FIG. 2 which shows a cross sectional representation of the milling tool 1, are arranged consecutively in the operating direction of rotation R at a predefined separation angle T so as to be rotationally symmetrical to the operating axis of rotation 4. In the present case, the separation angle T is approximately 60 degrees, other, in particular smaller separation angles T also being considered, as can be seen from the further description.

[0118] As can be seen from FIG. 1 and from the representation of the detail in FIG. 3, the milling edges 5 extend along a basic body 6, in particular when viewed in a radial projection onto the basic body 6 or in a radial projection onto the lateral surface of the basic body 6, at a predefined angle of twist.

[0119] The angle of twist and/or the separation angle T named further above is/are preferably chosen in such a manner that a workpiece is able to be milled in such a manner that at least two milling edge portions of two different milling edges 5 which are, for example, consecutive in the circumferential direction, always engage the workpiece, which will be described in even more detail in connection with FIG. 9 and FIG. 10. Such an arrangement of the milling edges 5 along the basic body 6 is possible as a result of the realization proposed herein of the milling tool, engagement of two milling edges 5 enabling milling with improved smooth running, as a result of which improved milling cutter results, for example levels of surface quality, can be achieved on the workpiece to be machined.

[0120] The milling edges 5 of the milling tool 1 each comprise at least one, in the present case in each case multiple, milling edge portions 5.1-5.4, in which a milling edge profile P (FIG. 4) defined by the local or locally averaged milling edge radius F (FIG. 2) measured with reference to the operating axis of rotation comprises at least one portion with a non-linear progression. The term milling edge radius F is to be understood, in particular, in the case of linear, i.e. continuous, milling edges 5 as in the exemplary embodiment shown, as the respective radial distance between the milling edge 5 and the operating axis of rotation 4 or tool axis.

[0121] At least one of the milling edge portions 5.1-5.4 can be realized in such a manner that, for example, the local, or locally averaged, milling edge radius F first of all increases and then decreases again along the milling edge 5 which is the case, for example, with the cutting teeth 19 present in the shown milling edge portions 5.1, 5.3 and 5.4, which in each case comprise an ascending 20.1 and a descending milling edge flank 20.2 in the direction from shank 2 to operating area 3.

[0122] In particular in the region of the cutting tooth apex, the cutting edges 5 comprise portions with a non-linear progression. The milling edges 5 of the example shown in FIG. 1 include a mixture of portions with a linear and non-linear progression, embodiments without linearly extending milling edges also being possible, similar to, for example, as in FIG. 6 or 7.

[0123] At least one of the milling edge portions 5.1-5.4 can be realized in such a manner that in at least one milling edge portion, the milling edge profile P, i.e. the curve of the milling edge profile P, when viewed geometrically, comprises a turning point (for example between 5.1 and 5.2), an extreme point (at 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, at the apex points of the cutting teeth 19) and/or a point of discontinuity in its derivative or gradient (for example at 5.2, in the transition region between the linear portion and the ascending milling edge flank 20.1).

[0124] The respective milling edge portion may comprise one or multiple, for example substantially linear or substantially rectilinear, part portions with different gradients. Further progressions for the milling edge profile P are conceivable, apart from the milling edge profiles shown in the figures relating to the milling tool 1, the underlying invention also being applicable to other milling edge profiles P which show a progression with at least one non-linear portion.

[0125] FIG. 4 shows as an example a milling edge profile P, the form of which is chosen in the style of the milling tool 1 shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3. In the representation in FIG. 4, the axial length L, measured for example from the end-face axial end of the machining head 3 in the direction of the shank 2, is recorded on the x-axis, and the milling edge radius F, or the radius of the milling edge base discussed in more detail below, designated subsequently by way of milling edge base radius G, is recorded on the y-axis.

[0126] As can also be seen from FIG. 4, the milling edge profile P includes multiple milling edge portions 5.1-5.4 in which the milling edges 5 demonstrate a non-linear progression at least in portions.

[0127] To avoid possible ambiguities, it shall be mentioned that the term milling edge radius F can be understood herein, in particular, as the local distance, measured in the radial direction, between the radially outer edge of the milling edge and the operating axis of rotation 4.

[0128] In the case of the milling tool 1 shown in the figures, the basic body 6, and also the machining head 3, comprises a form which is realized in a similar manner to a pagoda. Correspondingly, the milling edge portions can be realized, for example, as peaks, for example at 5.1, 5.3 and 5.4, or troughs, for example at 5.2, with a linear or curved milling edge profile progression, the peaks in the present example being realized as cutting teeth 19.

[0129] The milling edge 5 shown in the figures is a smooth, i.e. continuous, milling edge, in particular without roughing toothing and the like, however it is pointed out in connection with the invention that the invention described herein is also applicable to discontinuous milling edges, for example, rough-cut milling edges and the like, it being possible to consider, for example, a locally averaged milling edge radius or a locally smoothed milling edge radius where the progression of the milling edge is discontinuous. For further discussion relating to discontinuous milling edges reference is made to the statements further above.

[0130] The at least one milling edge portion can comprise, for example, a milling edge profile P where the milling radius F can vary by up to 0.5 times the maximum milling edge radius of the respective milling edge.

[0131] For example, between two and ten of the milling edge portions 5.1-5.4 may be present over the axial length of the machining head 3 along a milling edge 5, for example in the form of multiple cutting teeth 5.1, 5.3, 5.4 with tooth roots located in between, for example at 5.2. For example, the milling profile can be realized in the manner of a fir tree milling profile, the machining head 3, in particular the basic body 6, as shown in the exemplary embodiments of the figures, being able to comprise a form realized according to a pagoda.

[0132] The at least one milling edge 5 may comprise multiple of the named milling edge portions which can be realized, for example, curved convexly or concavely in a radial manner with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4. Further curvatures may be produced, for example, from a more or less twisted progression of the milling edges 5 themselves. The milling edge portions, however, may comprise, at least in portions, a linear progression. It is pointed out that each of the milling edges 5 as such may also be considered as a milling edge portion, for each of the milling edges includes at least one non-linear portion.

[0133] In the case of the machining head 3, the milling edges 5 have arranged upstream thereof in the operating direction of rotation R in each case chip spaces 7, by means of which the chip material, generated during the milling operation during the cutting engagement of the milling edges 5 or removed from the workpiece, can be received, directed, formed and/or transported.

[0134] The relative arrangement of milling edge 5 and chip space 7 is shown as an example in the sectional representation shown in FIG. 5 relating to a part of an axial section of the milling tool 1.

[0135] As can be seen in FIG. 5 the chip space 7 in the present case is defined, among other things, by a chip surface 8 which is located radially within the milling edge 5 and connects to the milling edge 5 i.e. connects to the milling edge, extends in the radial direction toward the operating axis of rotation 4, and extends up to the chip space base 9 of the chip space 7. The intersection point or the intersection line 10 between chip space base 9 and chip surface 8, or the contour line 10′, which extends in the chip space base 9, at which the chip space base 9 is at the smallest radial height in relation to the operating axis of rotation 4, may also be designated as the chip space root. In addition, the chip space 7 is defined by a width, which is measured in the circumferential direction U or in the operating direction of rotation R, or by a circumferential angle which is measured with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4, which width or circumferential angle may be substantially constant, for example, in the progression along the milling edge 5 In particular, in sections perpendicular to the milling edge 5 the chip space 7 may comprise a cross section which is substantially constant in the progression along the milling edge 5. In alternative embodiments, it is possible for the cross section of the chip space 7 to vary along the milling edge 5 width and/or height of the chip space being able to vary.

[0136] As can be seen from FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, along the milling edge 5 the chip space base 9 or the chip space root 10, or 10′, comprises a progression which follows the milling edge profile P. This is shown as an example in the diagram in FIG. 4, the broken line representing the given progression of the chip space base 9 corresponding to the progression of the milling edge 5 or as an option the progression of the chip space root 10, 10′, the chip space base profile S. As already indicated, the chip space base profile S is defined by the radius G of the chip space base 9 or of the chip space root 10, 10′ measured in each case with reference to the operating axis of rotation. In FIG. 4, the radius G of the chip space base is recorded in dependence on the axial length L.

[0137] The wording “following the milling edge 5” shall be understood, in particular, such that the distance between chip space base 9 or chip space root 10, 10′ and milling edge 5 measured perpendicularly to the milling edge 5 or measured in the radial direction with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4, is substantially non-varying or constant at least in portions. In the representation in FIG. 4, the chip space base 9 or the chip space base profile S follows the milling edge profile P over the entire length of the machining head 3 both in linear and non-linear portions of the milling edge profile P. However, it is also possible for the chip space base profile S only to follow the milling edge profile P in part in the portions with a non-linear progression, for example to extend parallel to the milling edge 5 only in portions in the non-linear portions.

[0138] The respective chip spaces 7, as in the exemplary embodiments shown, may comprise a height H which is substantially constant along the milling edge 5, the height H of the chip space 7 being able to be provided, for example, by the difference between the milling edge radius F and the respective radius G of the chip space base 9, or by the perpendicular distance between the chip space base 9 and the milling edge. Depending on the configuration of the chip space 7, the height H of the chip space 7 may be identical to the width of the chip surface 8.

[0139] Where the form of the chip spaces 7 is realized as described, it is possible to obtain a chip surface 8 which comprises a substantially constant width B over the progression of the milling edge 5 at least, however, in the milling edge portions 5.1-5.4, measured, for example, as the distance, measured perpendicularly to the milling edge 5 between chip space base 9 and milling edge 5. The chip surface 8 may be realized, for example, in the form of a chip surface strip with a substantially constant width measured perpendicularly to the milling edge.

[0140] As a result of the chip surfaces 8 having a constant width B and/or the chip spaces 7 having a constant height H, at least similar, in particular substantially non-varying, chip formation characteristics and/or a similar and/or substantially non-varying chip removal can be achieved, for example, over the entire length of the milling edge 5 as a result of which improved levels of surface quality are able to be achieved during milling.

[0141] In addition, compared to realizations according to the prior art, improved stability of the milling edge 5 and of the milling tool 1, in particular of the machining head 3, can be achieved as a result of the chip space base 9 or the chip space root 10, 10′ following the milling edge profile P. For example, the risk of breakage, in particular in the region of the milling edge 5 can be improved as a result of improved stability, as a result of which extended tool life is able to be achieved.

[0142] In particular, improved mechanical stability may be achieved for the cutting teeth 19, for it is possible to achieve mechanical stabilization and support of the cutting teeth 19 as a result of the saddle-like projections 21 realized in the circumferential direction U between adjacent cutting teeth 19, the contour of which, for example in sections parallel to the operating axis of rotation 4, follows the contour of the cutting teeth 19 or corresponds to the contour of the cutting teeth.

[0143] Compared to known milling tools where the chip space base extends between adjacent cutting teeth 19, for example at a constant radial height above the operating axis of rotation, with the proposed geometry of the chip spaces 7 it is also possible to achieve modified mass distribution with the milling tool, for example with increased inertia moment, as a result of which, among other things, the quiet running of the milling tool is able to be influenced, in particular improved.

[0144] The chip spaces 7 described in connection with FIG. 1 to FIG. 5 are realized in a substantially U-shaped or V-shaped manner in the region which connects directly to the milling edge 7, with a first leg 11, which extends between chip space base 9 and milling edge 7 and is formed substantially by the chip surface 8, and a second leg 12. The second leg 12 comprises a smaller radial height than the first leg 11 and extends between chip space base 9 and a transition region 13, which is realized in the present exemplary embodiment in the manner of a plateau or a shoulder segment. The transition region 13 or the corresponding shoulder segment is elevated in relation to the chip space base 9 and extends from the second leg 12 in the operating direction of rotation R up to a free surface edge 14 of a milling edge 5 following in the operating direction of rotation R.

[0145] The transition region 13, or the shoulder segment 13, may, however, be realized in embodiments in another manner. For example, it is possible for the transition region 13, proceeding from the chip space base 9, for example without specific realization of a shoulder, to ascend continuously toward the free surface edge 14, the transition region 13 being able to be realized in a curved manner, where applicable concavely or convexly, in particular substantially uniformly convexly or concavely, which is shown in FIG. 5 as first variant 13.1 according to the dot-dash line.

[0146] In addition, it is possible for the transition region 13, proceeding from the chip space base 9, to extend at an approximately constant radial height in the circumferential direction U, or operating direction of rotation R, and to demonstrate a substantially radial progression in the region of the free surface edge 14, which is shown in FIG. 5 as second variant 13.2 according to the double dot-dash line.

[0147] A free surface 15, which is delimited in the circumferential direction U on the one side by the free surface edge 14 and on the other side by the milling edge 7, connects to each of the milling edges 5 in opposition to the operating direction of rotation R. Measured in the circumferential direction U, the free surface 15 comprises a predefined free surface width E which, either measured as an absolute length in the circumferential direction, or measured as an angle with reference, for example, to the operating axis of rotation 4, is substantially constant or non-varying in the progression along the milling edge 7.

[0148] In the exemplary embodiment shown, respective milling edges 7 and free surfaces 15 realize a lug or milling lug which extends along the milling edge 7, comprises, measured in the circumferential direction U, the predefined free surface width E, extends on the basic body 6 at a predefined angle of twist and from the basic body 6, comprises a predefined, in particular substantially constant thickness measured in the radial direction. Measured with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4, the radial height of the milling lug varies corresponding to the milling edge profile P so that the cutting teeth 19 are realized in the region of the milling edge portions 5.1, 5.3, and 5.4. The difference between the radial height of the milling lug and the radius G of the chip space base 9 may be constant in embodiments following the progression of the milling edge 5 In further embodiments it may be provided that the height of the milling lug, measured perpendicularly to the milling edge, above the chip space base is substantially constant. Improved stability, in particular break stability, can be achieved over the longitudinal extension of the milling lug with non-varying heights.

[0149] In the case of the milling tools shown in the figures, the basic body 6 is realized in such a manner in the intermediate region between two milling edges 5, following one another in the circumferential direction that the contour thereof follows the milling edge profile P, the radial height of the basic body, measured with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4, in the region between the chip space 7 of a first milling lug and the free surface edge 14 of a subsequent second milling lug, being able to be greater than the radius G in the chip space base 9. The free surface 15 and the free surface edge 14 are also realized, in particular in the case of all milling lugs, such that they comprise a contour or a profile which follows the milling edge profile P, i.e. is geometrically congruent with the milling edge profile P.

[0150] A milling process with the milling tool 1 running smoothly in an improved manner can be achieved with the proposed milling geometry, and the generation of vibrations caused by the milling can at least be countered.

[0151] The free surface 15 may be realized in such a manner that it is slanted at a predefined free surface angle W1 which may be, for example, within the range of between 0° and 15°.

[0152] As can be seen from FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the chip space 7 may be realized, in particular, in such a manner that the cross section thereof, following the progression of the milling edge 5 or of the chip space base 9, is constant over the entire length of the milling edge 5 at least, however, over the entire length of a milling edge portion. For example, the chip space 7 may be realized as a type of groove which comprises substantially non-varying geometry in the progression along the chip space 7 in the radial direction and the circumferential direction U. Corresponding structures may be produced, for example, on a corresponding blank as a result of material removal, for example by milling.

[0153] Compared with conventional milling tools where the profile of the chip space base simply demonstrates a linear progression, it is possible in the case of the milling tool 1 proposed herein to increase the number of milling edges 5 or cutting teeth 19 or milling lugs present in the circumferential direction U, that is to say it is possible for the separation angle T to be reduced compared with known milling cutters. By reducing the separation angle T, using the milling tool 1 proposed herein, in contrast to the named known milling tools, it is possible to achieve an improvement with regard to the mechanical stability of the operating area, as in the case of the milling tools 1 proposed herein, for example the transition regions 13, in particular the saddle-like projections 21, have a stabilizing effect such that, in particular, the risk of breakage is able to be reduced. By decreasing the separation T, that is to say increasing the number of milling lugs or milling webs in the circumferential direction U, it is possible to increase the tool life for example by a factor of up to 1.5 compared with conventional milling tools.

[0154] In the case of the milling tools 1 proposed herein, the chip space 7 and the angle of twist may be freely varied across a wide range without, at the same time, modifying or impairing the mechanical stability of the milling tool 1 in a significant manner.

[0155] The milling lugs may be realized in such a manner that they comprise a wedge angle W2 within the range of between 51° and 93°, and/or a rake angle W3 within the range of between −3° and 24°.

[0156] In particular on account of the higher mechanical stability and strength of the milling lugs achievable with the advantageous milling cutter geometry proposed herein, the free surface angle W1, wedge angle W2 and rake angle W3 can be chosen in a comparatively flexible manner so that it is possible to adapt the milling tool 1 flexibly to the material to be machined in each case and/or corresponding to the milling edge profile P necessary in each case.

[0157] As can be seen in particular from FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the milling tool 1 further comprises multiple coolant and/or lubricant outlet openings 16. The coolant and/or lubricant outlet openings 16, referred to below in short as outlet openings 16, may be realized, for example, as the mouth openings of radial bores which may be fluidically connected at the ends remote from the outlet openings 16 to an axial coolant and/or lubricant channel which extends in the interior of the milling tool 1.

[0158] Due to the space-saving realization, made possible with the present invention, of the chip spaces 7 in the circumferential direction U, the outlet openings 16 may be arranged in a comparatively flexible manner compared with conventional milling tools. In particular, the outlet openings 16 can be arranged at least in part in the transition regions 13.

[0159] As the contour of the transition regions 13 may follow the milling edge profile P, i.e. may be realized corresponding to the milling edge profile, the outlet openings 16 may be introduced, with regard to radial height, for example close to the milling edges 5 such that coolant and/or lubricant distribution to the milling edges 5 can be improved.

[0160] FIG. 6 shows a milling tool 1′ according to a second variant, and FIG. 7 shows a milling tool 1″ according to a third variant.

[0161] The milling tools 1′ and 1″ according to the first and second variants differ from the milling tool 1 according to the first variant in particular in that the milling edges 5 are arranged with respect to one another at another, in particular smaller, separation angle T. This shows that in the case of the milling tool proposed herein, the milling edges 5 are able to be arranged in a comparatively flexible manner. In addition, it can be seen that the angle of twist is able to be chosen freely within a wide range.

[0162] Furthermore, different milling edge profiles P are able to be implemented with the proposed milling cutter geometry. Thus, the milling tool 1′ according to the second variant comprises milling edges 5 with two troughs, whilst the milling tool 1″ according to the third variant comprises at least three troughs in the milling edge profile P.

[0163] From FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 when viewed together with FIG. 1 to FIG. 5 it follows additionally that with the milling cutter geometry proposed herein, the milling edges 5 are able to be arranged in such a manner that during the milling operation at least two milling edges 5 always engage the workpiece at least in portions, as a result of which the smoothness of the milling tool 1, 1′, 1″ is able to be improved.

[0164] FIG. 8 to FIG. 10 show parts of milling edge profiles P and of associated chip space base profiles S which may be implemented according to the invention proposed herein, and where, in a region which includes a non-linear progression in the milling edge profile P, the chip space base profile S follows the milling edge profile P, or where the chip space base profile S is realized in a corresponding manner to, in particular in a geometrically congruent manner with, the milling edge profile P. For example, the chip space base profile S may be displaced substantially parallel to the milling edge profile P. It is also possible for the radial distance or the distance measured perpendicularly to the milling edge 5 between the milling edge 5 and the chip space base 9 to be substantially constant or non-varying following the progression of the milling edge 5.

[0165] The milling edge profiles P to corresponding milling edge portions shown in FIG. 8 to FIG. 10 show regions with a non-linear progression overall.

[0166] The milling edge profile P shown in FIG. 8 includes two straight part portions, the milling edge radius F being substantially constant in a first part portion and the milling edge radius increasing linearly in a second part portion such that the milling edge profile formed from both part portions includes a non-linear progression overall. At the intersection point 17 of the two part portions, the derivative or ascent of the milling edge profile P has a point of discontinuity from a geometric perspective.

[0167] In the example in FIG. 9, the milling edge profile P, and correspondingly the chip space base profile S, comprises a wave-shaped, non-linear progression, with a trough and a peak. From a geometric point of view, the milling edge profile P comprises a turning point 18 in the region between peak and trough.

[0168] In the example in FIG. 10, the milling edge portion shown is realized in the manner of a prong, in particular in the manner of a cutting tooth 19, with two linear part regions, i.e. one linearly ascending part region or one ascending cutting tooth flank 20.1, and one linearly descending part region or one linearly descending cutting tooth flank 20.2, the milling edge profile P comprising a point of discontinuity in its derivative at the intersection point 17 or apex point of the two part regions. The milling edge portion shown consequently comprises a non-linear progression overall, corresponding to the underlying invention the chip space base profile S having a progression which corresponds to the milling edge profile, i.e. also comprising a point of discontinuity in its derivative.

[0169] The milling edge portions shown in the figures can also comprise other progressions. For example, a convexly or concavely curved progression of the milling edge can be provided in place of a straight progression, and it is possible to provide arbitrary combinations of milling edge portions named and described herein in connection with the invention, in particular arbitrary combinations of straight and curved portions with a non-varying, decreasing or increasing milling edge radius, with increasing or decreasing gradient, etc . . . .

[0170] FIG. 11 shows a schematic side view of a milling tool 1 according to FIG. 6, and FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 show an axial top view or a side view of the milling tool 1.

[0171] The schematic side view according to FIG. 11 characterizes a minimum profile diameter D of the machining head 3 which is defined by the milling cutter geometry at a predefined position along the axial direction of the machining head 3, in the example in FIG. 11 located in the region of the axial end of the machining head 3.

[0172] As can be seen in FIG. 11, at least one of the milling edge portions may be realized as a cutting tooth 19, realized in particular in a dome-shaped manner with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4. The ratio between the number of the cutting teeth 19 arranged consecutively per revolution in the circumferential direction with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4 and the minimum profile diameter D of the operating area 3 may be, for example, between 0.2 and 1.0.

[0173] The milling tools 1 proposed herein may be realized, as shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, in such a manner that the separation angle or angles T and the angle or angles of twist, or the progression thereof, is chosen such that at least one milling tool sector 22 is present in which, when viewed in axial projection with reference to the operating axis of rotation 4 (see FIG. 12), are located a first cutting tooth 23 of a first milling edge 24 and a second cutting tooth 25 of a second milling edge 26, the first milling edge 24 being spaced from the second milling edge 26 in the circumferential direction U by at least one time the separation angle T, and the milling tool sector 22 covering a circumferential angle which is smaller than or equal to the separation angle T. In the example in

[0174] FIG. 12, the milling tool sector 22 corresponds to the separation angle T, it being possible in embodiments to realize the milling tool sector 22 so it is smaller than the separation angle T. For example, the milling tool sector may be between ⅓ and ½ of the separation angle.

[0175] It is shown overall that with the milling tool proposed herein, and the proposed production method, it is possible to provide a milling tool with which improved mechanical strength, comparatively high levels of surface quality and improved tool life are able to be achieved.

LIST OF REFERENCES

[0176] 1 Milling tool [0177] 2 Shank [0178] 3 Machining head [0179] 4 Operating axis of rotation [0180] 5 Milling edge [0181] 5.1-5.4 Milling edge portion [0182] 6 Basic body [0183] 7 Chip space [0184] 8 Chip surface [0185] 9 Chip space base [0186] 10 Intersection line [0187] 10′ Contour line [0188] 11 First leg [0189] 12 Second leg [0190] 13 Transition region [0191] 13.1 Transition region, first variant [0192] 13.2 Transition region, second variant [0193] 14 Free surface edge [0194] 15 Free surface [0195] 16 Outlet opening [0196] 17 Intersection point [0197] 18 Turning point [0198] 19 Cutting tooth [0199] 20 Cutting tooth flanks [0200] 21 Saddle-like projection [0201] 22 Milling tool sector [0202] 23 First cutting tooth [0203] 24 First milling edge [0204] 25 Second cutting tooth [0205] 26 Second milling edge [0206] U Circumferential direction [0207] R Operating direction of rotation [0208] F Milling edge radius [0209] T Separation angle [0210] P Milling edge profile [0211] L Axial length [0212] G Radius of chip space base [0213] H Height [0214] B Width [0215] S Chip space base profile [0216] E Free surface width [0217] D Minimum profile diameter [0218] W1 Free surface angle [0219] W2 Wedge angle [0220] W3 Rake angle