Machinability studies on boron carbide and graphite reinforced aluminium hybrid composites

Abstract The effect of machining parameters on the thrust force, torque and burr height while drilling Al 2618, Al2618 with 10% boron carbide (B4C) and Al2618 with 10%B4C and 5% graphite (Gr) hybrid composites are addressed. The composites are produced using a process of liquid metallurgy. The findings indicate that, feed rate had a significant impact on thrust force and the height of the exit burr. The Al2618 + 10% B4C-5%Gr reinforced hybrid composites exhibit smaller thrust force and burr height in contrast to the Al2618 + 10% B4C composite. The reduced thrust force, torque and burr height was due to the strong graphite surface lubrication properties. The chips produced while machining graphitic composites are discontinuous, and hence beneficial.