Electrical discharge machining of Al-TiB2 with a low-frequency vibrating tool

Abstract

Aluminum-based composite reinforced materials produced in situ with titanium boride (TiB2) particulates have higher potential for advanced structural applications where high specific strength modulus as well as superior temperature resistance is imperative. In the present work, aluminum alloy-titanium boride composites were developed using a new combination of in situ techniques. Electrical discharge machining studies were conducted on aluminum alloy-TiB2 composite work-pieces using a brass electrode. From the results, it is clear that the material removal rate and surface cracks of the workpiece increase with an increase in current and decreases with increase in the composition of titanium boride.