Machining parameters optimization of surface roughness analysis for AA5083 – Boron carbide (B4C) composites

Abstract

This study concentrated to optimize the surface roughness analysis for the AA5083 – Boron carbide (B4C) composites with three process factors. The high strength aluminium alloy 5083 is considered for this study and increasing the strength by the reinforcement of boron carbide particles with different percentage of weight. The aluminium matrix composites are produced by the stir casting route. The stirring action implies 600 rpm constantly to increase the strength of the composite for improving the machining parameters. The optimization of machining (drilling) parameters for this study considered as drilling speed (1000 rpm, 1500 rpm and 2000 rpm), drilling feed (60 mm/min, 100 mm/min and 140 mm/min) and percentage of reinforcement (5%, 10% and 15%). The Design of experiments (DOE) is involved to find the minimum surface roughness of the composites efficiently, using the L9 OA to optimize the factors of the drilling operation. Surface microstructure study is conducted through 3D surface profilometry approach with the aid of gwyddion software.