The Influence of wire electrical discharge machining cutting parameters on the surface roughness and flexural strength of ZrO2/TiN ceramic nanocomposites obtained by spark plasma sintering

In this work, we characterized the mechanical and electrical properties of zirconia-based ceramic nanocomposites reinforced with 30 and 40 vol. % TiN and fabricated by spark plasma sintering. In addition to their improved mechanical performance, these compositions have sufficient electrical conductivity to allow wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM). The influence of WEDM variables on the roughness and the mechanical strength of samples was analyzed after each cut. The experimental results showed that the roughness of machined surfaces can be reduced by variations in WEDM manufacturing regimes, and, consequently, a drastic drop in flexural strength of workpieces can be avoided. Furthermore, the composites with higher content and homogeneous distribution of the conductive phase exhibited better surface quality as well.We would like to thank the Ministry of Science and High Education of the Russian Federation for supporting this work under contract RFMEFI57718X0288.Peer reviewe