Micro-milling of Pyramid Structured Surface for Implant Application

Surface modification, as a promising approach to improve biocompatibility of biomaterials, has captured extensive close attention among many researchers. Here, micro-milling technology was used in constructing pyramid micro-structures on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V implant. Cutting parameters, including spindle speed, feed rate and depth of cut, were optimized to control the generation of burrs. In addition, low melting point alloy was selected to extend the boundary of the workpiece as supporting material to prevent the generation of top burrs. The surface topographies were characterized using scanning electron microscope and laser scanning microscope. Results showed that the dimension of burrs decreased with the decrease of depth of cut, and the size of burrs decreased with the increase of feed rate. Moreover, burrs nearly not appeared on both sides of the micro-grooves machined with low melting point alloy (LMPA) coating. Pyramid micro-structure on the workpiece surface was built successfully by combining optimized cutting parameters (S=35 kr/min, Vf=60 mm/min, ap=5 μm) and LMPA coating.