Influence of cutting parameters on the machining performance of alumina particle reinforced aluminum matrix composites in milling

In this study, 15 vol.% Al2O3 particle reinforced Al6Zn2Mn2Cu aluminum metal matrix composite was manufactured with liquid phase sintering technique. After production, it was annealed and mechanical properties were tested. Later, the formation of cutting forces, surface roughness and built-up edge height during machining with face milling technique, was measured. Three different cutting tools (uncoated WC, TiN coated WC, TiCN coated Al2O3), three different cutting speeds (90, 120, 150 m/min), three different feed rates (0,08, 0,12, 0,16 mm/z) and constant depth of cut (1 mm) were used in face milling operations. In conclusion; it was seen that, feed rate was more effective than cutting speed in terms of cutting forces, surface roughness and built-up edge formation. It was concluded that as feed rate increases, cuttings forces and surface roughness increase, built-up edge height decreases. Furthermore, in these machining conditions best performance obtained with uncoated WC tool.