Machining Performance of AlSi/10%AlN Metal Matrix Composite Material in Milling Process Using Uncoated Insert

This paper presents the machining performance of aluminum silicon alloy (AlSi) metal matrix composite which has been reinforced with aluminum nitride (AlN) using the uncoated tool of inserts. Experiments were conducted at various cutting speeds, feed rates, and depths of cut, according to a fractional factorial array L9 of Taguchi method for both cutting tools. Statistical analysis including the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and analysis of variance is applied to study the characteristic performance of cutting speeds, feed rates and depths of cut during the milling operation. The machining performances are observed through surface roughness, and tool wear and these measurements are analyzed using the Taguchi method. From the Taguchi analysis, it was found that cutting speed of 230 m/min, feed rate of 0.4 mm/tooth, a depth of cut of 0.3 mm were the optimum machining parameters for surface roughness and tool wear, indicated that lower level for all machining parameters gave the best result in machining of AlSi/10%AlN metal matrix composite.