Drilling of natural fiber-reinforced based polyurethane foam composite

Abstract

The combination of natural fibers and renewable source matrices is an option to replace materials from non-renewable sources used in the manufacture of composites. One example is the use of pinus sawdust and sisal fibers together with a matrix of polyurethane (PU) foam derived from vegetable oils. For the application of composites in sectors such as building or furniture industry, one of the necessary processes is drilling, which allows assembling through different fastening systems. The aim of this work is to investigate the drilling process of the composites of PU foam derived from vegetable oils matrix with only pinus sawdust and hybrid pinus sawdust and sisal fibers taking into account surface damages of the holes and temperature generated during the process. Results showed that drilling parameters influence on the generation of damages mainly at the edges of the holes. Lower cutting speed and feed rate were most appropriate for drilling these types of composites, and temperatures generated during drilling showed relationship with the generation of damages.