Ultrasonic slot machining of a silicon carbide matrix composite

Rotary ultrasonic slot machining (RUSM) of ceramic matrix composites is explored. A comparison is made between RUSM and conventional diamond grinding by studying the effects of material removal rate (MRR) on process forces, tool wear and surface roughness. It was shown that RUSM leads to a significant decrease in process cutting forces and tool wear in comparison to the conventional machining process. Furthermore, the influences of diamond tool characteristics on surface roughness and tool wear are also ascertained.