Abstract
Two-phase composites consisting of alumina and lanthanum phosphate were prepared and subjected to ultrasonic machining, using low carbon steel tools (solid and hollow) of 3 mm diameter and the performance was evaluated. The effect of LaPO4 on machining was studied by analyzing the acoustic emission signals emitted by the work piece during machining The material removal rate was calculated by noting down the time of machining. The profiles of the drilled holes were plotted using a profile projector with a magnification of 20. Microstructures of the samples were also studied. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.