An experimental study on grinding of silicon carbide reinforced aluminium alloys

This paper presents the results of an experimental research on the grinding of metal matrix composites. The aim of the investigation is to enhance the knowledge about the machinability of some aluminium alloys reinforced with SiC of different shape (powder or whiskers) and content. Investigations on chip morphology, ground surfaces and trend of forces acquired during the grinding process were carried out. The results show that the presence of the reinforcement enhances the machinability in terms of both surface roughness and lower tendency to clog the grinding wheel, when compared to a non-reinforced Al alloy. Particle-reinforced composites exhibit a linear relationship between the roughness of the ground surface and the average hardness of the material. Whisker-reinforced composites show higher roughness values than particulate composites. Data of grinding forces obtained under different machining conditions are reported which permit the evaluation of the specific cutting energy.