A study on different tooling systems during machining of Al/SiC-MMC

Paper presents experimental results from a series of turning test in which a number of different tooling systems are used to machine aluminium 10 vol.% SiC-metal matrix composite (Al/SiC-MMC). The influence of the cutting time and length of machining on the tool wear and the influence of cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, inclination angle of tool holder on the surface finish has been established for each of the tooling system. The results suggest that the fixed rhombic tooling (FRT) and fixed circular tooling (FCT) is most effective for proper machining of Al/SiC-MMC at high speed and low depth of cut. No built-up edge or flank build-up is formed on the circular insert in rotary circular tooling (RCT) system, which is generally, appears with conventional tooling during cutting of Al/SiC-MMC. Self-propelled RCT exhibits superior wear resistance, extended tool life. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.