Abstract: High speed machining has been improved thanks to considerable advancement on the tools optimum geometry, harder materials), on machined materials (increased workability and machining capacity for harder workpieces) and finally on the machines (higher accuracy and power at the high speeds, performances of the numerical control system). However at such loading velocities, the cutting process generates high strain and high-speed strain which cause complex, various and irreversible phenomena in plasticity. These phenomena are comprehended through the complete measurement of the mechanical actions using a six-component dynamometer and flux and temperatures measurements at the tip of the cutting tool. Balanced energy assessments are the starting points of our reflection on the machining modelling. The modelling of these phenomena and the material behaviour under this type of loading requires a suitable theoretical approach. The main points of the strain gradient theory are developed. A theoretical behaviour law adapted to the cutting phenomena is then expressed.

Key words: experimental, cutting process, cutting model, strain gradient, plasticity, behaviour law, second

gradient theory, six-component dynamometer.