Multi response process parameter optimization of turning Al SiCP metal matrix composites

Abstract

Aluminium based metal matrix composite materials are one of the widely known composites which found considerable applications in aerospace automotive and electronic industries because of their improved strength stiffness and increased wear resistance over unreinforced alloys Howeverthe final conversion of these composites in to engineering products is always associated with machining either by turning or by milling A continuing problem with metal matrix composite is that they are difficult to machine due to the hardness and abrasive nature of the reinforcing particles The particles used in the MMC are harder than most of the cutting tool materials During the machining of MMC the reinforced particles are fractured and pulled out of the matrix which lead to the deterioration of the product surface quality rapid tool wear and increased machining costs This limitation is a result of the failure to run the machine tools at their optimum operating conditions This invites optimization problem which seeks identification of the best process condition or parametric combination for the said manufacturing process If the problem is related to a single quality attribute then it is called single objective optimization