Experimental observation for reducing uncut fiber during the carbon fiber-reinforced polymer drilling process

Abstract

This research discusses drilling challenges in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer for reducing material damage. A new approach is proposed in the experimental setup that uses acrylic nano silicone (ANS) tape and springs. The uncut fiber removal was assessed for two fiber orientations: balanced (J1) and quasi-isotropic (J2) ply sequences. The results revealed that the simultaneous use of ANS tape and springs (ANS tape + spring) was significantly effective, removing 100% of the uncut fibers for both orientations. Additionally, the ANS tape prevented fiber deflection, and the springs worked as dampers, reducing shocks at the tool entry and at the bottom layer of the material. The percentages of uncut fiber removal for J1 and J2 orientations increased by 14.7% and 16.7%, respectively, compared with conventional drilling. Further examination of the feed force revealed that the application of ANS tape was also effective in reducing the maximum feed force, thus minimizing material damage.