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Abstract
Cutting tools serve an indispensable part in modern manufacturing innovations, reshaping various sectors such as smartphones, automotive, and aerospace. The importance of precise cutting edges and surfaces in these precision tools cannot be overstated. The main benefits include increasing edge strength by removing surface imperfections, accurately shaping the cutting edge through rounding or chamfering, and improving surface finish for longer tool life and better coatibility. My PhD thesis investigates a variety of edge preparation techniques, ranging from drag finishing and wet micro-abrasive blasting to electrolytic polishing, with a particular focus on materials such as tungsten carbide and high-speed steels. A customised electropolishing apparatus has been designed and optimised to achieve a mirror-like surface with an average roughness below 100 nm and a controllable micron-honed edge on tungsten carbides, which have limited options for surface alteration due to their dielectric nature. The results of our investigation revealed problems related to cobalt leaching, micro-oxidation spots and the deterioration of hardness in post-electropolished carbides. However, we have put forward a number of uncomplicated solutions to tackle these difficulties. Additional polishing techniques have been examined on both flat and intricate tool forms, and the results of these tests are shown together with proposed diagrams of the mechanisms involved.

About the Speaker
Dr. Minh Nhat Dang concluded his PhD scholarship at ARC SEAM, Swinburne University of Technology. Before that, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Nanotechnology from Vietnam-France University, where he graduated second in his class. He has participated in fully funded research visits to top institutions in the US, Australia, and recently Europe. Minh’s professional experience includes roles such as Principal Investigator, Lead Researcher, and Laboratories Manager at leading Vietnamese research institutions. There, he studied TMDC photocatalysts, Au/Pt quantum dots, Cu-based metal-organic frameworks, ultra-high strength concretes, recycled asphalts, 3D-printed resins, and nano-carbons (graphene, CNTs, and CVD diamond) for environmental and clean energy applications in both national and private projects.

His doctoral research focused on advancing nano-smooth surface finishes and micro-honing edge preparation techniques for modern cutting tools, supported by industry funding and his role as a Research Intern at Sutton Tools, a leading tool manufacturer in Australia. Minh currently works as an EPX Engineer with ANCA, a global leader in CNC and machining technology, specialising in state-of-the-art stream finishing technology.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Minh has been actively involved in leadership roles across various extracurricular clubs since high school, including music, martial arts, and science. He served as president of an engineering postgraduate association at Swinburne for two years. Recognized for his comprehensive skill set and contributions to materials science, Minh has earned accolades such as Swinburne SoE’s Postgraduate of the Year and APICAM’s second best presentation. He holds nearly 20 publications and patents, has attended over 20 international conferences & global tradeshows, and has been acknowledged for his abilities in photography and futuristic design, as the primary technology advisor for Posthuman Lab neo-fashion. His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing the field of materials science and nanotechnology.

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