Experimental Analysis of Polishing of Hybrid Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite Reinforced with SiC, ZrO2, and NiTi Particles Using a Developed Rotary Abrasive Float Polishing System

Abstract

Finishing is an essential process after manufacturing of miniature products. The conventional finishing processes can be used to produce good surface in micro domain but effectiveness of these processes is very poor for polishing of ductile, hard and brittle materials. Considering aforementioned, rotary abrasive float polishing set-up has been developed and utilized for polishing of aluminium matrix composite specimens. The effect of abrasive particle size, abrasive concentration, lap rotation and polishing time on surface finish were analysed. Taguchi L₁₈ mixed orthogonal array was engaged for the experimental design and optimization. The surface roughness height (R_a, µm) of the polished specimens were enhanced from 0.437 to 0.049 µm i.e. 88.79%, when experiments were performed at optimal parametric setting. Abrasive particle size, lap rotation and polishing time was found significant factors in deciding surface roughness. Scanning electrode microscopic and optical images confirm the absence of any scratch and roughness peaks on polished surface specimens.