Machining SiC fibre reinforced metal matrix composites – How do different matrix materials affect the cutting performance?

SiC fibre reinforced metal matrix composites find widespread application but show major machining difficulties due to significant variations in constituents' properties. In this sense, while the SiC fibre plays significant strengthening effects, the properties mismatch between the brittle fibre and ductile matrix materials becomes important in their machining performance. Through machining tests, SiC fibre reinforced MMCs with Al (soft) and Ti (hard) matrix alloys are evaluated, showing the variation of interaction between inserts and fibres in cutting due to the different matrix properties. This leads to less tool wear but compromised surface integrity in Al-based composite than in Ti-based one.