Micro-structural changes of Zn–Al alloy influencing micro-topographical surface in micro-cutting

This study investigates the effects of micro-structural changes of Zn–Al alloy induced by ultra-precision diamond turning under various depth of cut on surface topography, using the X-ray diffraction technique, back-scan electron microscopy, and surface measurement instrument. It is found that as micro-structural changes of the machined surfaces occurred, depth of cut promotes the micro-structural changes that simultaneously ensue and enhance uncertainty and fluctuation of surface topography relating to material swelling, recovery and pile-up, and surface roughness. The surface material property changes significantly contribute to surface micro-topography.