Tips to Reduce Tool Chatter

When operating a boring bar excessive machining vibrations or chatter can occur because of several issues. To assure you’re maximizing efficiency and producing the best quality part finish, you must avoid basic mistakes that could be causing tool chatter in the boring process. In this blog we will discuss several tips to reduce and eliminate tool chatter.

Dull Cutters

When using a dull cutting tool, chatter will occur because the cutting force necessary is greater. The more a cutter is in operation, the more it will have galling or built-up edge (BUE). To avoid this problem, inspect your tool before operation to determine it has a a sharp cutting edge and fits your exact application.

Incorrect Speeds & Feeds

Using too high of a chip load in the boring process causes deflection, which increases the chances of tool failure. A chip load that is too low causes the tool to bounce off the material because it doesn’t allow the tool to cut enough. Both errors cause chatter and poor quality. It is critical to use the speeds and feeds recommended for the tool when running a boring bar.

No Workpiece Support

Poor or no support on the workpiece in the boring application will result in chatter. Be certain the correct workholding device is solidly set in place to ensure your setup is as rigid as possible. Secure tool holding is also essential for the proper boring performance.

Poor Starter Hole

Beginning a boring project by drilling a proper starter hole ensures the boring bar has sufficient contact with the workpiece for a stabilized cut. The boring bar could deflect off the workpiece if the starter hole is too large and will not have enough clearance if the hole is too small, leading to tool wear and eventual failure. The two critical dimensions to consider when selecting a drill to prepare the workpiece are the head width and minimum bore diameter.

Universal DeVlieg provides innovative and cost-cutting tool holding and high precision boring solutions to the machine tool industry, servicing a diversified customer base. The combination of over 32,000 active part numbers, over 10,000 standard items, and our technical support staff deliver design engineering expertise that is unmatched in the industry. To learn more about Universal DeVlieg, contact us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 877.308.3077 or visit at universaldevlieg.com.