Machinability of Particulate Aluminium Matrix Composites

Mechanical and physical properties of light metal matrix composites (MMC) indicate that these materials could play a significant role in applications for engineering components. The aim of this investigation has been to enhance the knowledge about the machinability of a specific particulate aluminium matrix composite (AISi7Mg) alloy reinforced with 14 Vol% Sic. The high percentage of hard silicon carbide (2700 HV) which is used to reinforce PAIMC makes machining operations very difficult. The hard Sic particles are forced against the tool, causing excessive abrasive flank wear. The main objects of the investigations were tool wear, cutting forces and surface roughness