Análise da influência do processo de usinagem de cerâmica pré-sinterizada para a produção de componentes cerâmicos avançados

Abstract

The machining process of advanced ceramics in the pre-sintered state occurs when the part is partially fired, reaching approximately 70% of the sintering temperature. This stage optimizes production by reducing post-sintering machining operations, which lowers the final cost. After this step, the part attains high hardness, requiring more resistant and consequently more expensive cutting tools. When applied to the manufacturing of components with complex geometries, this method offers significant advantages, such as improved surface finish, greater financial efficiency, and design flexibility, enabling dimensions close to the final specifications. In this study, a machining bench with monitoring systems via a load cell was utilized. The pre machining temperatures employed were 950°C, 1000°C, 1050°C, and 1100°C. Linear shrinkage, density, feed force, hardness, and surface finish were analyzed. The results show that hardness and feed force increased with the rise in temperature. Regarding surface finish, higher roughness (Ra/Rz) was observed at temperatures above 1000°C. The data and analyses indicate that 950°C proved to be the most suitable temperature for the pre-sintering of alumina, exhibiting lower hardness and feed force, which promotes reduced cutting tool wear and lower machining costs.