Dynamic force signal analysis in dry finish turning of Aluminium metal matrix composites

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMC) have found wide applications in the transportation sector. But, the presence of hard particles in the MMCs causes catastrophic tool failures. The current study presents a method to select process parameters to increase the material removal rate in finish turning of Al-MMC (Al 6061, 5% SiC, 3% C) using TiN coated carbide inserts. The key aspects of the method are (a) Using the fractional factorial method for performing experiments economically (b) Using radial force instead of cutting force (c) Using frame statistics and linear spectrum of the radial cutting force signal to select process parameters. The experiments were conducted on a precision lathe. A 6-component piezoelectric dynamometer was used to measure the cutting force.