Research Progress in the Area of Advanced Machining of Polymer Matrix Composites

The advanced machining techniques can be used as a potential alternative to the conventional machining methods because advanced machining of polymer composites results in less damage to the machined surface as cutting forces are not generated during the machining operation. The negligible heat-affected zone, reduced waste materials, better surface quality, noise- and dust-free machining and process flexibility are some additional advantages of the advanced machining techniques. Moreover, the advanced machining techniques can be used to machine a wide variety of composites with better surface quality. This chapter presents and discusses the metal removal mechanism of different advanced machining techniques such as electric discharge machining, electrochemical machining, water jet machining, abrasive water jet machining, laser beam machining and vibration-assisted machining in the context of polymer composites. The influence of various machining parameters on the quality of the machined surface has been reviewed. The challenges with various advanced machining techniques have also been adequately discussed.