What is the term for the unintended movement of a cutting tool due to mechanical forces?

The unintended movement of a cutting tool due to mechanical forces is accurately described as deflection. Deflection refers to the bending or displacement that occurs when a tool is subjected to cutting forces during machining operations. This can impact the precision of the machining process, resulting in less accurate dimensions and surface finishes.

Understanding deflection is crucial in manufacturing as it helps in selecting appropriate tooling materials and geometries that minimize this effect, ultimately leading to improved accuracy and quality of the finished product. It is also important for operators to recognize the potential for deflection in their setups and make necessary adjustments to tooling, workholding, or cutting parameters to mitigate its impact.