Product Code: ICAL08_406

Process Development of Laser Machining of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic Composites
Authors:
Z.L. Li, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (Simtech); - Singapore
P.L. Chu, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (Simtech); - Singapore
H.Y. Zheng, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (Simtech); - Singapore
G.C. Lim, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (Simtech); - Singapore
L. Li, University of Manchester; Manchester Great Britain
R. Negarestani, University of Manchester; Manchester Great Britain
S. Marimuthu, University of Manchester; Manchester Great Britain
M. Sheikh, University of Manchester; Manchester Great Britain
P. Mativenga, University of Manchester; Manchester Great Britain
Presented at ICALEO 2008

The growing use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites as high performance material in aerospace and automotive industry has prompted studies in developing technologies for machining of the composites in recent years. Use of laser for cutting and drilling composites is attractive due to its flexibility and no tool wear. However, the large difference in material properties of the carbon fibre and the epoxy resin presented serious challenges to the laser-based process. The issues related to heat affected zone (HAZ) causing charring and potential delamination have been the major obstacles for its industry applications. This paper studies the process in machining CFRP by a 10W diode pumped solid state (DPSS) Q-switched UV laser operation at the wavelength of 355nm. HAZ, charring, delaminating reduction and material removal efficiency were investigated. Process modeling was carried out.