Machining-induced surface integrity in brass alloys

Abstract

This study presents machining process and resulting surface integrity properties of brass alloys including leaded (CW617N), low-leaded (CW511L) and lead-free (CW724R). Experimental data on cutting forces and cutting temperatures are presented to assess machining of these alloys. Surface quality, subsurface microhardness and microstructures of machined brass alloys are considered to assess surface integrity properties. Higher subsurface deformation was observed in low-leaded and lead-free brass materials compared to leaded brass materials. This present study reveals that machining process results in deformation twinning on the surface and subsurface of specimens. The role of machining parameters on performance measures and surface integrity aspects is also presented in this work. This work illustrates that machining parameters have a notable effect on measured machinability outputs. It should be noted that lead content has a strong influence on surface integrity aspects including microhardness and twinning of machined brass alloys.