Although the abrasive reinforcement in MMCs primarily controls their machining behavior, the properties of the matrix also exert an influence. A 1200 W diode laser was used, due to the large footprint (5×0.3 mm) and the short wavelength (0.94 μm) to pre-treat a 2618 (18% SiC) alloy. The laser heating and self-quenching of the material modified the matrix properties. Machining performance was then assessed by measuring tool wear and edge condition, cutting forces, surface finish, and sub-surface damage. Results indicated that pre-treatment gave less wear, lower forces, and less sub-surface damage although abrasion remained the primary wear mechanism.

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