A method for form error prediction in side wall machining with a flat end mill is suggested. Form error is predicted directly from the tool deflection without surface generation by cutting edge locus with time simulation. Developed model can predict the surface form error about three hundred times faster than the previous method. Cutting forces and tool deflection are calculated considering tool geometry, tool setting error and machine tool stiffness. The characteristics and the difference of generated surface shape in up milling and down milling are discussed. The usefulness of the presented method is verified from a set of experiments under various cutting conditions generally used in die and mold manufacturing. This study contributes to real time surface shape estimation and cutting process planning for the improvement of form accuracy.
