Machining Characteristics in Cryogenic Grinding of SiCp/Al Composites

In this study, liquid nitrogen was applied to grind SiCp/Al composites with high volume fraction and large SiC particle at different levels of cutting conditions, and the effects of grinding depth and speed on grinding force, surface morphology, and surface roughness were investigated. At the same time, the effect of cryogenic cooling was also compared with that of conventional wet grinding. The experimental results indicated that cryogenic cooling is effective in enhancing supporting function of Al matrix to the SiC particles and improving surface quality. Additionally, the brittle fracture of SiC particles was suppressed and some ductile streaks on SiC particle could be observed.