Influence of the V-shaped rubber knife of natural rubber trees on the quality of cut wood

Abstract In this study, to investigate the influencing factors between the rubber tapping knife and the cutting surface quality during the tapping process of natural rubber trees, as well as the cutting quality of wood using horizontal push-type knives, a simulated rubber tapping experiment was conducted, specifically involving the use of a rubber tapping knife to cut rubber wood blocks. During the experiment, the V-angle of the rubber knife and the feed speed were varied, and the variations in cutting force and cutting distance were monitored in real time. The surface flatness of the processed rubber wood blocks was then tested, followed by a latex flow experiment. After the experiments, the wear condition of the cutter was measured, and an analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between five evaluation indices: maximum cutting force, energy consumption, chip morphology, cutting surface quality, and latex flow velocity, with the V-angle of the rubber tapping knife and the feed speed. The test results showed that the 83° knife achieved the best cutting surface quality, while the 90° knife had the least wear. Based on the comprehensive evaluation of cutting performance, the 83° knife with a tapping speed of 90 mm/min produced in the best overall evaluation of cutting surface quality and knife wear.