Experimental Investigation and Numerical Analysis Regarding the Influence of Cutting Parameters on the Asphalt Milling Process

Abrasion wear is a significant concern for cutting tools, particularly when milling asphalt concrete due to the presence of hard mineral aggregate particles. The pressure exerted on the cutting tool by the chipped material and the resulting cutting forces directly influence tool wear. To estimate the cutting forces in asphalt milling, the authors propose using either laboratory experiments or cost-effective Discrete Element Method (DEM) modeling—by simulating the real conditions—as direct measurement under real conditions is challenging. This article presents results from an original experimental program aimed at determining the cutting forces during asphalt pavement milling. A specialized stand equipped with a moving plate and recording devices was designed to vary milling depth, rotational speed, and advance speed. The experimental results for horizontal force values were compared with numerical results from DEM modeling. It was found that both increasing the milling depth and the advance speed lead to higher cutting forces. Generally, DEM modeling trends align with experimental results, although DEM values are generally higher. The statistical analysis allowed identification of the milling depth as the most significant parameter influencing cutting force and the optimal combination of milling parameters to achieve minimum horizontal force acting on cutting tooth, namely, 15 mm milling depth and 190 mm/min advanced speed.