Abstract:M_n+1AX_n (MAX) phases are a family of nanolaminated compounds that possess unique combination of typical ceramic properties and typical metallic properties. As a member of MAX phase, Ti₂AlN bulk materials are attractive for some high- temperature applications. The synthesis, characteristics and machining performance of hybrid Ti₂AlN bulk materials were focused on in this work. The bulk samples mainly consisting of Ti₂AlN MAX phase with density close to theoretic one were synthesized by a spark plasma sintering method. Scanning electron microscopy results indicate homogenous distribution of Ti₂AlN grains in the samples. Micro-hardness values are almost constant under different loads (6?6.5 GPa). A machining test was carried out to compare the effect of material properties on micro-electrical discharge machining (micro-EDM) performance for Ti₂AlN bulk samples and  Ti6242 alloy. The machining performance of the Ti₂AlN sample is better than that of the Ti6242 alloy. The inherent mechanism was discussed by considering their electrical and thermal conductivity.

Key words: hybrid Ti₂AlN bulk; micro-electrical discharge machining; electrical conductivity; micro-hole shape