Cutting Temperature Investigation when High-Speed Milling of SiCP/Al Composites

Abstract

High-speed milling tests were performed on SiCp/2009Al composites in the speed range of 600-1200m/min using PCD tools to investigate the cutting temperatures and the influence factors. The results showed that the cutting temperature could reach 580°C under the given cutting conditions. Graphitization took place on the PCD tools under the high cutting temperature coupled with the effects of abrasive wear of SiC particles and catalysis of copper in the 2009 aluminum matrix. Cutting parameters, tool materials, workpiece materials and tool wear condition had significant effect on the high speed milling temperature while tool geometries had the minor effect. Among these influence factors, cutting speed was the most significant factor. Reinforcement volume fraction was the less significant factor and followed by radial depth of cut, feed rate and tool materials.