Analysis of the flange turning of aluminium aerosol cans based on tool edge geometry

Abstract

In recent years, the cosmetics industry, as the largest user of aerosol packaging, has been growing at an accelerating pace, requiring the production of aerosol cans with an increasing number of design elements. In the production of aluminium aerosol cans, the final shape is formed in several steps from a disc-shaped blank by back-rolling, and a so-called flange cutting (turning) operation is usually carried out after the flange of the can has been formed. Experience has shown that this operation often results in difficult-to-handle flowing chips, which in some cases can lead to a poor-quality product. In this paper, the material and edge geometry of the insert bit used in the flange turning operation are investigated and edge geometry modification recommendations are made to avoid unfavourable machining conditions.