Non-conventional Machining of Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

The machining of monolithic materials such as metals and alloys is a well-established process and is used extensively in a wide range of applications in many sectors of the aerospace, medical and automotive industries. However, metal matrix composites (MMCs) are particularly challenging due to the differences in the chemical and physical properties of the hard reinforcement and the metal matrix. Non-conventional machining (NCM) is an excellent tool for the processing of advanced materials such as metal matrix composites. This chapter provides an overview on the machining of metal matrix composites using a range of non-traditional manufacturing techniques including laser processing, electrical discharge machining, waterjet machining and selected others. Productivity and surface integrity aspects such as roughness and delamination are reviewed and discussed. The advantages and disadvantages against conventional methods are also discussed in detail.