Machine tool evaluation with test pieces: a review

Abstract Various internal and external error sources cause deviations between machined components and their design models during machining. These include machine structural deformation, cutting vibration, environmental changes, and thermal deformation. Thus, machine tool accuracy and performance evaluation are necessary for the purpose of acceptance, comparison and maintenance. Machining test provides an efficient and straightforward approach to evaluate the machining quality and cycle time in actual cutting environments, which has been widely used in the machine tool industry. By measuring the geometry of machined test pieces, the comprehensive cutting capability of machine tools can be evaluated. This paper systematically presents the design and application of test pieces for machine tool acceptance tests, periodical checkup and error component identification. It has straightforward benefits for machine tool makers, users, inspectors and plant engineers.