Output details
15 - General Engineering
University of Northumbria at Newcastle
Drill geometry and operating effects when cutting small diameter holes in CFRP
This paper presents the optimisation of process conditions when drilling small diameter holes in carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites. Industrial business case was identified (i.e. all-composite one-piece acoustic liner replaces traditional multi-piece metallic component for aero-engine intake for noise reduction and weight saving, incorporates 100,000 holes). This research was in collaboration with GKN Aerospace and Element Six. Results led to a significant reduction in machining time (70%) and estimated cost reduction of £1,000 per component (Mr Sam Bradley, Chief Technologist, GKN Aerospace, sam.bradley@gknaerospace.com).