An Ultrasonic Machine Tool

A relatively new machine tool utilizing ultrasonics for the cutting of hard brittle materials such as ceramics and the carbide metals has been developed for commercial use. The equipment uses a magnetostriction transducer capable of high amplitudes with a suspended abrasive to perform intricate operations on the “unmachinable” materials. The transducer is coupled to the load by resonant mechanical transformers in an effort to match more nearly the impedance of cutting load. Power for the transducer is obtained from an electronic control unit. Mounting of the transducer and vibrating members has received special attention since a rigid, controlled positioning mechanism is necessary for use as a machine tool.