Machining the Silicon-Containing Aluminum Alloys

Aluminum alloys containing medium and high silicon contents were effectively machined with the same styles of cutting tool. AA 380 aluminum, containing 8% silicon, represented the medium silicon-containing alloy; and AA 390, containing 16% silicon, represented the high silicon-containing alloy.

Either non-coolant feeding high-speed steel drills or tungsten carbide tipped coolant feeding drills effectively machined both alloys. It was necessary to maintain high penetration rates in machining the high silicon material. The medium silicon material was insensitive to penetration rates.

Adequate coolant flow and application were also necessary for effective machining of both alloys.

Proper choice of tool style and cutting conditions will allow for cost effective machining of the medium and high silicon-containing aluminum alloys.