Enhancing the surface integrity characteristics of Al-Li alloy using face milling

This work presents the milling induced surface integrity investigation of Al-Li alloy. The effect of milling on the surface roughness, microhardness, microstructure, and residual stress is studied. Uncoated carbide inserts are used for milling due their superior hardness and greater life, when machining softer materials such as aluminium and its alloys. Results show that the minimum surface roughness (Ra = 0.043 mu m) and maximum microhardness (216 HV) are achievable from the milling process, when compared with the roughness (Ra = 0.528 mu m) and microhardness (180 HV) of the as-received material. Results indicate limited harm to alloy microstructure from the milling process and the presence of compressive residual stress induced from milling. The work finds scope for aerospace applications.