Fundamentals of Machining Processes, 3rd Edition

17

   Machining Composite Materials

17.1   INTRODUCTION

Composite materials are continuously replacing common engineering materials in many applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, high-specific stiffness, improved fatigue and creep resistance when compared to metallic materials, allowing a weight reduction in the finished components. A composite material is a combination of reinforcement and matrix materials that results in better properties than each of the individual components. In contrast to commonly used metallic materials and alloys, each material retains its separate chemical, physical, and mechanical properties.

Generally, one phase of the composite materials is the matrix phase which can be plastic, metal, or ceramic. ...