Advanced machining using piezo-based actuator systems

Due to their very high applicable forces and their stiffness piezoceramics are feasible to serve as integrated actuators in machines. The application of piezo based components in production engineering was subject of plenty of investigations in the past. That focuses primarily on systems for condition monitoring or vibration reduction. However there are also few approaches that aim to use piezo actuators for improved machining. In this paper we present an overview of these systems, their parameters and the technological background. Selected systems will be presented in detail by showing measurement data. These will be for instance an adaptronic honing system, an active spindle mounting for micro contouring and a piezo based machine table for small workpieces. Summarized the existing systems will be compared considering their advantages and eventual hindrances. Beyond that the outlook will show problems, which need to be solved in the future to enable piezo assisted machining systems a more comprehensive application in manufacturing.