Researcher in Residence: Advancing manufacturing precision
The University of Manchester’s Dr. Zekai Murat Kilic is driving innovation in manufacturing precision in a bold project in collaboration with the AMRC.
Dr Kilic is tackling a pivotal challenge as part of his Researcher in Residence project: ensuring the resilience of machined components by achieving desired their surface integrity. This holds the key to extending the operational span of manufactured parts while aligning with the imperative of achieving Net Zero impact.
The project’s focal point is conquering the complexities posed by tight residual stress requirements. These constraints present hurdles in achieving precisely controlled machining processes. Dr. Kilic’s strategy revolves around crafting digital models that forecast machine dynamics, machining vibrations and their impact on residual stresses during milling operations.
Drawing from expertise in mechanics and machining dynamics, Dr. Kilic brings a wealth of knowledge garnered from high-impact publications in vibration and error modelling within multi-axis milling operations. This foundation is pivotal in creating accurate and effective predictive models.
Critical to this endeavour is experimental validation on machines closely resembling industrial practice. The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) provides an excellent platform for this pursuit, boasting robust industrial engagement and residual stress modelling capabilities. Dr. Kilic’s project will work seamlessly with the AMRC‘s resources, utilising state-of-the-art equipment, such as fully instrumented CNC milling machines with real-time process monitoring and precision measurement tools.
Dr Sabino Ayvar-Soberanis, AMRC Technology Fellow, said: “The project will build on both the AMRC centre’s capabilities in virtual machining toolkits and state-of-the-art equipment, as well as Dr. Kilic’s machine dynamics knowledge for future deployment in industrial settings. This work is crucial within the subtractive sector to help achieve higher productivity, a reduction in costs and lessen the amount of tool chatter and the residual stress on components.”
Speaking about the project, Murat said: “The significance of this research extends beyond academia. Through partnership with the AMRC and its industrial associates, this work could enhance manufacturing precision and, by extension, bolster the United Kingdom’s manufacturing prowess.”
