Comparison of tool life and surface characteristics of uncoated, coated carbide and ceramic tools during machining of SiC reinforced ZA43 alloy MMC

In the present investigation, machinability issues of zinc-aluminium (ZA43) alloy reinforced with silicon carbide particles (SiC) were evaluated. The fabrication of composite was done through liquid metallurgy technique. Metal matrix composite (MMC) was subjected to turning using conventional lathe with three grades of cutting tools, namely, uncoated carbide tool, coated carbide tool and ceramic tool. Surface roughness and tool wear were measured during the machining process. Results reveal that roughness increases with increase in the reinforcement concentration and particle size. Feed has direct influence on roughness, i.e. surface deteriorates with higher feeds. Depth of cut has very minimum effect on the surface roughness, while inverse effect of cutting speed on the roughness was observed (i.e. increase in the cutting speed leads to better finish on the specimen). Tool wear was studied during the investigation, and it was noticed that MMC with higher reinforcement concentration and particle size cause severe wear on the flank of the cutting tool. Increase in the cutting speed, feed and depth of cut also increases the flank wear on the tool. Out of all the three grades of tools, coated carbide tool outperformed uncoated carbide and ceramic tools.