An Experimental Study of Drilling Parameters Effect on Composite Carbon/Epoxy Damage

Abstract

The main purpose of composite materials drilling is the need to put together different parts of a structure, in aeronautics for example. The objective of this study is to experimentally analyze the influence of drilling on a carbon/epoxy composite. Three geometries of drill, a range of cutting speed and feed have been tested. Thrust forces and moments have been recorded during machining and macroscopic analyses have been conducted to examine outside and inside surfaces of the holes. Damages have been also quantified using delamination factor Fd. Experimental results have shown significant influences of feed and drill geometry on delamination and the best results have been obtained using a spur drill.