Abstract
This paper describes the machining characteristics of the MoSi$_2$--based composites through the process of electric discharge drilling with various tubular electrodes. In addition to hardness characteristics, microstructures of Nb/MoSi$_2$laminate composites were evaluated from the variation of fabricating conditions, such as preparation temperature, applied pressure, and pressure holding time. MoSi$_2$-based composites have been developed in new materials for jet engines of supersonic-speed airplanes and gas turbines for high-temperature generators. These high performance engines may require new hard materials with high strength and high temperature-resistance. Also, with the exception of grinding, traditional machining methods are not applicable to these new materials. Electric discharge machining (EDM) is a thermal process that utilizes a spark discharge to melt a conductive material. The tool electrode is almost -unloaded, because there is n direct contact between the tool electrode and the work piece. By combining a non-conducting ceramic with more conducting ceramic, it was possible to raise the electrical conductivity. From experimental results, it was found that the lamination from Nb sheet and MoSi$_2$ powder was an excellent strategy to improve hardness characteristics of monolithic MoSi$_2$. However, interfacial reaction products, like (Nb, Mo)SiO$_2$and Nb$_2$Si$_3$formed at the interface of Nb/MoSi$_2$, and increased with fabricating temperature. MoSi$_2$composites, with which a hole drilling was not possible through the conventional machining process, enhanced the capacity of ED-drilling by adding MbSi$_2$, relative to that of SiC or ZrO$_2$reinforcements.
