Cutting Forces and 3D Surface Analysis of CFRP Milling with PCD Cutting Tools

This paper provides a study on the milling of carbon fiber reinforced laminated composites. A set of milling experiments were carried out under various conditions. Cutting force results were measured and analyzed (based on the cutting coefficients modelling). 3D surface topographies of machined areas were measured. The cutting forces and surface roughness results were analyzed and better average surface roughness values were obtained from the process conditions of high cutting velocity and low feed rate. The influences of fiber orientation on the surface quality were evaluated. The tool flank wear was measured by an optic microscope periodically and the results were interpreted.