Drilling of hybrid Al-5%SiC_p-5%B₄C_p metal matrix composites

Authors: Ahamed, A.¹; Asokan, Paravasu²; Aravindan, Sivanandam³; Prakash, M.⁴

Source: The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Volume 49, Numbers 9-12, August 2010 , pp. 871-877(7)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Hybrid metal matrix composites consist of at least three constituents—a metal or an alloy matrix and two reinforcements in various forms, bonded together at the atomic level in the composite. Despite their higher specific properties (properties/unit weight) of strength and stiffness, the nonhomogeneous and anisotropic nature combined with the abrasive reinforcements render their machining difficult. The work piece may get damaged and the cutting tools experience high wear rates, which may lead to an uneconomical production process or even make the process impossible. This work reports on the drilling of Al-5%SiC_p-5%B₄C_p hybrid composite with high-speed steel (HSS), not expensive PCD, or carbide drills in an attempt to explore the viability of the process. Drilling of Al-5%SiC-5%B₄C composites with HSS drills is possible with lower speed and feed combination. The cutting conditions for minimized tool wear and improved surface finish are identified. Characterization of tool wear and surface integrity are also carried out.

Keywords: Hybrid metal matrix composites; Drilling; Tool wear; Surface integrity

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00170-009-2453-5

Affiliations: 1: Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Park College of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore, 641 659, India, Email: ariazahamed@yahoo.com 2: Department of Production Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Trichy, 620 015, India 3: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi, 110 016, India 4: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bangalore, 560 017, India

Publication date: 2010-08-01