Machinability analysis on Al7075 matrix composites reinforced by nano-silicon carbide, boron carbide, graphene and MWCNT

The present work seeks to propose the development of relatively new hybrid composites Al7075-10%SiC-0.1% B4C, Al7075-10%SiC-0.1% graphene, and Al7075-10%SiC-0.1% Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties by the addition of nanopowders viz. B4C, Graphene, and MWCNT as an alternative material for automobile cylinder blocks. The newly developed hybrid composites present a significant improvement in the hardness and tensile strength in comparison with the existing materials utilized in the manufacturing of IC engine cylinder blocks, thereby leading to a reduction in maintenance and improved life of the cylinder block. Further, the machinability of the developed composites was investigated by conducting turning experiments using Uncoated and diamond-like carbon-coated carbide inserts under various turning conditions. The investigation outcomes reveal that there was high flank wear during the machining of the B4C-based (0.9835 mm) composite, and it was low in the graphene-based composite (0.2314 mm). The CNT-based composite displayed medium wear (0.4408 mm). Crater wear was high (1.4373 mm) while turning graphene-based composite, medium in CNT-based composite (1.0823 mm), and it was less (0.3707 mm) in B4C-based composite.