Ultra-precision turning is highly needed to manufacture molds for precision lens. In this study, micro-turning combined with elliptical vibration cutting (EVC), which is known to enhance micromachining quality, was investigated by installing a rotary stage into the micro-grooving machine. From machining experiments involving materials of copper, brass, and aluminum and single and poly crystalline diamond tools, it was found that EVC produced thinner and curlier chips and that better surface finish could be achieved, compared with conventional turning, owing to prohibition of formation of burrs and built-up edges. Therefore, we found EVC micro turning could be readily utilized to manufacture precision mold.
