High speed turning of metal matrix composites with tools of different material and geometry

Metal matrix composites are manufactured in a variety of grades and forms, but machining is usually necessary to obtain finished engineering components. The presence of the hard reinforcing ceramic makes these materials difficult for conventional machining and a severe tool wear can occur. This paper describes high speed turning tests performed on a 2024 Al alloy and on composites SiC2009 Al alloy with 15% whiskers and 20% particles employing tools of different materials and geometry. The effect of the tool material, tool geometry and cooling on the cut surface quality are described. The morphology of machined surfaces, their sections and profiles were examined by SEM and EDAX analyses were performed