An examination of alumina-1.6 vol.% silver composite as cutting tool insert

The role of 1.5-2% silver on the cutting peroformance of alumina-silver composites (ASC) was examined with the expectation of achieving higher degree of hardness at the expense of some toughness of ASC. The relative density of ASC5 was found to be higher than ASC15 due to the influence of silver on the densification process of these composites. The breakin wear occured within about one minute of cutting in ASC5 and was greater than ASC15 and ZTA. The results depicted increase in the fracture toughness of alumina with the addition of small amount of a silver.