Experimental investigation and analysis of thrust force in drilling cast hybrid metal matrix (Al-15%SiC-4%graphite) composites

Composite materials are used in different engineering applications and are continuously displacing conventional materials due to their excellent properties. This paper discusses the influence of drilling parameter on thrust force in drilling Al 6061/15%SiC 4%Gr metal matrix composites. The composite materials are fabricated by stir casting method. The experiments are conducted on computer numeric control vertical machining centre using titanium nitride coated solid carbide twist drills of 4 mm, 8 mm and 12 mm diameter under dry conditions. A response surface analysis is carried out. The effect of drilling parameters on thrust force is studied and presented. The results indicated that feed rate is the main parameter which influences the thrust force in drilling of hybrid metal matrix composites.