Theory 026/Materials Processing
Chatter Is a Width Ratio
The claim
Machining chatter begins at a critical ratio of depth of cut to tool engagement width rather than at a critical depth.
01The mechanism
Stability depends on the dynamic compliance at the cutting point, which scales with engagement geometry rather than absolute depth.
02Predictions
- P1Stability should collapse at a width ratio.
- P2Absolute depth alone should not predict onset.
03Refutation
Chatter tracking absolute depth would remove the ratio.