Optimizing the Machining Parameters for Minimum Burr Height in Drilling of Hybrid Composites

This paper discusses the use of response surface methodologies for minimizing the burr height in drilling of hybrid Al356/SiC/Mica metal matrix composites using solid carbide drill. The experiments have been conducted on vertical CNC machining centre using Taguchi's experimental design technique. The parameters used are Spindle speed, feed and wt % of reinforcement. The effect of machining parameters on burr height is evaluated and the optimum cutting condition for minimizing the burr height is determined by using desirability function. A model has been established between the cutting parameters and burr height using response surface methodology. The predicted values and measured values are fairly close, which indicates that the developed model can be effectively used to predict the burr height in drilling of hybrid Al356/SiC-Mica metal matrix composites. The optimization results showed that the combination of low spindle speed, low feed rate and high wt % if SiC are necessary to minimize burr height.