Analysis of micro-machining characteristics of Si3N4-hBN composites

In this study, micro-machining characteristics of Si3N4-hBN composites were analyzed for the development of micro-pattern making methods. First, Si3N4-hBN composite specimens of various h-BN contents were prepared using hot-press method. R-Curve behavior of the composites was investigated to understand its machinability. And, micro-shaping, micro-end-milling and micro-drilling processes were performed for the machinability evaluation of the composites. In the micro-shaping, V-grooves were machined and their shapes and cutting forces were measured and analyzed. Similar processes were preformed for the micro-end-milling and micro-drilling processes. The results of this study can be applied to determine optimum micro-machining conditions for Si3N4-hBN composites.