What is meant by “component distortion” in milling?

Component distortion in milling refers specifically to the bending or warping of a workpiece as a result of the cutting forces applied during the machining process. This phenomenon occurs when the forces exerted by the cutting tool cause the material to deform, leading to inaccuracies in the dimensions and surface integrity of the part being machined.

When the cutting tool interacts with the workpiece, especially in high-speed or high-feed scenarios, the stresses generated can exceed the material's ability to withstand them, thus resulting in distortion. Accurate machining requires careful consideration of these forces, as they can affect not only the part’s geometry but also its functionality in the final assembly.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe component distortion. Changes in color after machining relate more to surface treatment or oxidation rather than physical shape alterations. Intentional shaping pertains to design processes rather than undesirable distortions. Lastly, the normal wear of cutting edges deals with tool maintenance and longevity, which does not directly impact the workpiece's geometry in the same manner as component distortion does.