Machinability Study of Stir Cast Hypoeutectic Aluminum-Silicon Alloys During Turning

The influence of Be and Cd (iron correctors) on mechanical properties and machining behavior of hypoeutectic Al-Si alloy (Al-7Si-0.5Mg-1.2Fe) processed by conventional and semi-solid metal (SSM) processing (stir casting) techniques is investigated. The alloys under investigation were prepared by controlling melt in an induction melting furnace. The stirring of SSM was carried out at a constant stirring speed of 400 rpm under constant cooling conditions from liquidus temperature. The turning operations were carried out under dry conditions on a CNC turning center using coated-carbide insert by varying cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and approaching angle. An orthogonal array, the signal-to-noise ratio, and analysis of variance were employed to study the machining performance characteristics. The results indicate that Be/Cd modification of the alloy and selected cutting parameters significantly affect the machining characteristics. The feed rate, cutting speed, and Cd as an iron corrector have more effect on the machining behavior of the alloys under study.