Research Information System
El-Cezeri Journal of Science and Engineering, vol.11, no.2, pp.160-168, 2024 (Scopus)
Modifying fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) becomes an effective strategy to improve the mechanical performance of the structural parts and add multifunctionality. However, this strategy increases the costs of such new-generation multi-scale composites. Machining of FRPs is challenging due to their susceptibility to machining-driven damages, leading to high-cost wastes. To prevent high-cost waste, the machinability of new-generation multi-scale composites with minimum damage becomes a vital processing issue. This work investigates the impact of CNTs on the drilling performance and hole quality of glass/epoxy multi-scale composites. Multi-scale composite laminates were drilled with high-speed steel drills under dry conditions. Cutting speed and feed rate were parametrically optimized, considering the deformation factor, delamination, and thrust force. The change in thrust force was recorded in situ, and deformation factors were calculated using image processing techniques. Moreover, the damage assessment of drilled holes was carried out with scanning electron microscope analysis to reveal the drilling-induced micro-scale damages. The addition of CNTs within the epoxy matrix increased thrust forces; however, lower delamination failures around exit sides were observed for multi-scale composites. Taguchi technique and analysis of variance were utilized to explore the contributions of drilling parameters and material type to the thrust force and deformation factor. Feed rate and material type were major factors affecting the deformation factor.