Experimental and numerical study of manufacturing induced defects in structural integrity of a Metal Matrix Composite

Metal-matrix composites are metals or alloys that includes particles, whiskers, fibres etc. made of a different material. These materials can be tailored to be lightweight and with various other properties. Due to their improved mechanical properties and lightweight, metal matrix composites are increasingly considered as substitute to conventional metallic alloys. Machining is a manufacturing operation where mechanical interaction of a cutting tool with the workpiece material results in material removal and subsequent alteration of micro-mechanical properties at the machined surface. These could adversely affect the functional performance of the machined parts. This research aims to better understand and predict the machining induced damage in a MMC and its service life using experimental and numerical methods