Experimental investigation of delamination and surface roughness in the drilling of GFRP composite material with different drills

Abstract This paper describes the experimental investigation in the drilling of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites with three dissimilar tools, having different materials and geometries (i.e. helical flute (HSS) drill, Carbide tipped straight shank (K20) drill, and Solid carbide eight-facet drill). Tool geometry and materials are considered to be major factor, which is responsible for drilling-induced damage. Cutting parameters also influence drilling-induced damage. These damages were measured by two delamination factors. Image processed technique was utilized to determine the damaged area and maximum damaged zone diameter. The results showed that qualities of drill holes significantly improved when solid carbide eight-facet drill was used.