Cutting properties of aluminum matrix composites

Promising aluminum matrix composite experimental samples were obtained for the study of cutting properties. The peculiarities of the drilling process, as the most demanded and indicative process of machining, were assessed by the axial cutting force, torque, and chip shape. Studies of composite samples of various compositions with the initial matrix alloy made it possible to establish the basic laws of material behavior, to reveal the influence of reinforcing components, and to give recommendations on the drilling of the materials.

Comparative analysis and comprehensive studies showed that the reinforcement of aluminum matrix composites affects the structure. The modifying effect of the reinforcement, expressed in the refinement of the grain structure, affects the hardness of the material. The strengthening effect of various reinforcements was accompanied by not so unambiguous behavior in the evaluation of machinability. With the introduction of SiC, the cutting force was decreased, but the conditions for chip removal deteriorated. When copper was added, cutting forces and torque were reduced by 2 times about the initial matrix alloy. The torque was further reduced when drilling a specimen with Cu-Al₂O₃ complex reinforcement. It can be argued that according to a comprehensive assessment of the cutting ability, the material with the addition of copper and nanoparticles of aluminum oxide shows the best characteristics. (paper)