CUTTING TOOL AND CUTTING MATERIAL
DEVELOPMENTS
Machining accuracies down to 10 vm can now be achieved for conventional cutting processes with CNC
machine tools, whilst ultraprecision cutting can operate in the range < O.1vm. The main technological
developments associated with the cutting tool and tool materials, the workpiece materials, the machine
tool, the process conditions and the manufacturing environment which have led to this advancement are
given detailed consideration in this paper. The basis for a roadmap of future development of cutting technology
is provided.