An investigation of laser-assisted machining of Al₂O₃ particle reinforced aluminum matrix composite

Al₂O₃ particles reinforced aluminum matrix composite (Al₂O₃p/Al) are becoming increasingly used for their excellent physical and chemical properties. However, their poor machinability leads to severe tool wear and to a bad machined surface. In this paper laser heat-assisted machining is adopted in machining Al₂O₃p/Al composite, good results being obtained. The result of the present experiment shows that in machining Al₂O₃p/Al composites the cutting force is reduced by 30-50%, the tool wear is reduced by 20-30% and the machined surface quality is improved in laser-assisted machining as compared with conventional cutting. Some analysis on the mechanism of laser heat-assisted machining of Al₂O₃p/Al composite is given in the paper also.