Cutting parameters optimization of hybrid fiber composite during drilling

Delamination is the most important problem encountered in drilling composite materials. This problem can be minimized by optimizing the cutting parameters. In this study delamination behavior of glass/carbon/aramid fiber reinforced hybrid composite was investigated during the drilling operation. Experiments were planned according to Taguchi’s L27 orthogonal array. Cutting velocity (20 m min , 40 m min , and 60 m min ), feed rate (0.04, 0.08, and 0.12 mm rev ), and cooling type (wet, air, and dry) were selected as cutting parameters. Thrust force was measured during the drilling operation, and the delamination factor for entrance was calculated after the tests. Optimization of the parameters was evaluated using the signal/noise ratio approach. The effectiveness of parameters on results was determined by analysis of variance (ANOVA). In addition, regression equations were obtained with the response surface method (RSM). According to the optimization results, the thrust force can be reduced with low cutting velocity and low feed rate under dry conditions. It was concluded that low cutting velocity and the feed rate should be applied under dry conditions to reduce delamination.