This paper presents an experimental study in turning of hybrid aluminium metal matrix composites and its effect on tool wear when machined using a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tool. The present study establishes the relationship between cutting conditions and machinability characteristics during the turning of hybrid MMCs. The investigation aims at determining the effects of cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut on tool wear. The cutting tool wear was investigated and the experimental results showed that for reduced tool wear, feed rate and depth of cut should be minimum and the cutting speed should be either low or high, since at intermediate cutting speed the tool wear is more. Therefore there seemed to be a certain cutting speed which will cause the least tool wear.

Keywords: Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites, Machining, Turning, Polycrystalline Diamond Tool, Tool Wear