Machining of Graphite/Epoxy Composite Materials With Polycrystalline Diamond (PCD) Tools

Abstract

Machining of graphite/epoxy composite material is investigated by turning (cutoff) tests using different grades of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) inserts. The wear behavior of the PCD cutting edge is characterized by small cracks, rounded edges, and flank wear. The flank wear growth rate was found to depend on the microstructure of the tool and machining time. The coarser the PCD grade was, the better the wear resistance. The machined surface characteristics were evaluated by analyzing the surface roughness data and by scanning electron microscopy inspection of machined surface textures. Surface quality was found to get better with the cutting time.