Exploring the impact of cutter surface texture on the enhancement of elastomer cutting performance

Abstract

The cutting technique is widely utilized for shaping elastomeric products in industries such as automotive, medical, and wearables, due to its adaptability and effectiveness. Nevertheless, the challenges of high cutting resistance and substantial material deformation impede its application for precision cuts. Prior studies have identified the significant role of friction between the elastomer and cutter in this resistance, yet a thorough investigation of this friction and its mitigation remains unaddressed. This research delves into the frictional dynamics at the cutting interface and introduces an innovative surface texturing method to reduce this friction. Using a ring-on-disc tribometer, the study examined the friction between the elastomer and various rigid surfaces with different roughness levels. Building on these insights, a sandblasting technique was adopted to create an optimized surface texture, resulting in enhanced cutting performance. Experimental results showed that adding surface texture to blades and needles reduced friction by 60 % and 20 %, respectively, compared to non-textured tools. This was further validated through orthogonal blade cutting and needle penetration experiments.