Machining Technologies and Strategies for C f /SiC Composites From Fundamentals to Advanced Processing: A Review

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) exhibit excellent high‐temperature performance, making them ideal candidates for hot‐end components operating in extreme environments. The carbon fiber‐reinforced SiC (C f /SiC) composite, one of the most representative CMCs, is particularly appealing due to its outstanding properties and ease of fabrication. However, the intrinsic brittleness of SiC and the low ductility of carbon fibers make them prone to fracture under stress, posing significant challenges for achieving high‐quality machining of C f /SiC composites. Moreover, the anisotropic and heterogeneous nature of C f /SiC composites exacerbates tool impact and causes uneven material removal, leading to high surface roughness. This review summarizes the structure, properties, and fabrication of C f /SiC composites, with a focus on the machining of C f /SiC composites and the corresponding removal mechanisms for different techniques. We discuss key factors influencing machining quality and efficiency in conventional mechanical machining, non‐contact physical machining, ultrasonic‐assisted machining, direct laser beam machining, laser machining with auxiliary mediums, and laser‐mechanical combined machining, while summarizing related optimization strategies. The review also addresses gas and water jet‐assisted laser machining, elucidating their specific improvement mechanisms and parameter optimization strategies. This work aims to provide insights into rational machining strategies for C f /SiC composites, ultimately facilitating their broader application across various industrial fields.