Machinability performance of different fiber orientations of roll wrapped CFRP pipes

Abstract

AbstractIntegrating fiber reinforcement plastics (FRP) materials into the industry plays a key role especially for pipes. However, due to the production methods of CFRP pipes, surface finishing processes are inevitable at the end of production. Despite the widespread use of CFRP materials, the predominant focus in the literature has been on their mechanical performance. This study aims to contribute to the limited research on the machinability of CFRP materials. In this context, the turning machining process for CFRP pipes was experimentally investigated in the present study. For this purpose, carbon fiber pipes with an inner diameter of 30 mm and an outer diameter of 60 mm were produced and subjected to computer numerical control (CNC) turning. First, a cylindrical aluminum pipe is used as a mold to manufacture CFRP pipes. Unidirectional (UD) carbon fabrics were wrapped on these aluminum molds. Shrink tape was used to enhance the surface smoothness and required pressure to prevent delaminating of the end product during the process. UD carbon fabrics are wrapped on to the mold at the selected angles (0°, 45°, and 90°) and the CFRP pipe specimens were manufactured using epoxy matrix. Pipes were processed on CNC lathe at 120, 160, 200 rev/min speeds and f 0.4 mm/rev feed rate. The surfaces of the machined specimens were measured with a microscope and a surface roughness device. On the other hand, wear on the tools was observed after the process.Highlights CFRP pipes were produced with different fibre orientations, i.e., 0°, 45°, and 90°. All CFRP pipes are made under equal conditions and cured at 80°. Turning of CFRP pipes was examined under dry environments. Performance criteria: surface roughness, temperature, tool wear, and chip formation were explored. 45° fibre angles CFRP pipes showed the best machinability performance.