In this paper, a transient dynamic finite-element analysis was carried out to investigate the effects of tool rake angle on cutting temperature, cutting force and chip-shear angle. The workpiece material is SiCp/Al composites, which are widely used in automotive industry, aircraft and aerospace constructions. The results show that cutting temperature and cutting force decrease, while the chip-shear angle increases evidently with increasing of the rake angle, and the cutting characteristics can be predicted currently based on the simulation model. The results obtained from this study will provide a fundamental understanding of the process mechanics for cutting with realistic cutting tool edges.