PCD in the machining of DRA composites

Discontinuously reinforced aluminium (DRA) composites are a new class of materials finding a variety of applications in automobiles, aerospace and military fields because of their many attractive properties such as high strength-to-weight ratio, high wear and elevated temperature resistance, and relatively easier fabrication methods. Due to the presence of ceramic reinforcements, this family of materials is considered as 'difficult-to-machine'; and therefore requires PCD/PCBN for their efficient machining. S. S. Joshi, N. Ramakrishnan and P. Ramakrishnan review the role of PCD tools in the area of machining of DRA composites with emphasis on analysing the influence of tool, process and materials dependent parameters on their performance.