Thrust force evaluation and microstructure characterization of hybrid composites (Al7075/B4C/BN) processed by conventional casting technique

At present, the research studies in the composite materials are enduring to improve the mechanical and other necessary properties of materials. The need for advanced form of hybrid metal matrix composite has been used in aerospace, defence and numerous engineering applications due to its less weight, improved hardness and outstanding machining properties in wide range. This paper focuses on mechanical properties and influences of drilling parameters on the cast Al7075/B4C/BN hybrid composites. Liquid metallurgy technique is most preferable to blend the ceramic particle with matrix material with excellent dispersion qualities. CNC drilling machine is used to perform the experiments. TiN-coated carbide drill bit is used to conduct the experiments by varying the tool angle. While drilling, operation is performed and thrust force is measured by varying the machining parameters. Microstructure and elemental confirmation of the prepared composites are analysed using SEM with EDX mapping. Feed rate and point of angle are the most influencing parameters for thrust force and surface roughness of the prepared hybrid composites. An orthogonal array of L-27 is selected to carry out the drilling operation. In addition, tensile properties and density of the prepared composites are also analysed.