Optimization of Drilling Parameters of Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) consisting of two or more physically/chemically distinct phases are potential material for aerospace, automobile, defense, sport and research industries. Aluminum Matrix Composites (AMCs) reinforced with ceramic materials such as SiC, Al2O3 etc. is attractive material for modern industrial sectors consequent to the increasing demand for new, light-weight materials having greater mechanical strength. Such materials are termed as hybrid aluminum matrix composites (HAMCs). The industrial use of HAMCs in fabrication of structural components, in manufacturing sectors calls for drilling operation. Drilling facilitates assembly of composite parts and derives better machining rate with an improved surface finish. In the present study attempt has been made to examine the effect of drilling parameter on AMCs and HAMCs materials of 6070 Al alloy. The response parameters considered are MRR (mm3/min), oversize (mm) and surface roughness (micron). The mathematical models have been proposed for modeling analysis of the effect of drilling parameter on the performance through response surface methodology (RSM). A central composite design FCC(α=1) involving three process parameters viz. speed (rpm), feed (mm/rev) and point angle (degree) with three level each has been employed to establish a mathematical model between the process parameters and responses. The separable influence of individual process parameter and their interaction are investigated by using ANOVA. The result of ANOVA indicates that the AMCs have good machinability as compared with HAMCs.