Effect of machining parameters on the tool wear in drilling of 3D PF C/C composite

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 04 | Page :
    By

    G. Ramaguru,

  • T. Nagaveni,

  • Atul Ramesh Bhagat,

  • K. Saraswathamma,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College of Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
  2. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College of Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
  3. Scientist ‘F’, Advanced Systems Laboratory, Kanchanbagh, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
  4. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College of Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Abstract

Carbon–carbon (C/C) composites are broadly used in aerospace, defence, shipbuilding, chemical, and nuclear industries owing to their high strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios. However, they are brittle, anisotropic and non-homogeneous in nature, making them difficult to machine. Incorrect machining parameters can cause defects such as burrs, delamination, and fibre bundles pullout. This paper aims to study the hole surface and tool wear during drilling of 3D pierced fabric (PF) carbon-carbon (C/C) composite using plain carbide and tungsten carbide drills by varying spindle speed and feed rates under dry conditions. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was employed to analyse the tool wear and defects in the drilled hole. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was carried out to examine the chemical composition of the carbide tools and the adhesion after drilling. From the experiments, it was observed that breakage and edge shedding are the primary tool wear mechanisms in the tungsten carbide drill. In contrast to tungsten carbides, mechanical abrasion and carbon powder deposition were observed in the plain carbide drill. The quality of the hole entrance was superior to that of the hole middle and exit regions, regardless of the machining parameters. Typical defects in the hole included tearing and burrs, while the hole edges exhibited uncut fibres, fibre outcrops, and delamination.

Keywords: 3D C/C PF Composite, drilling, carbide, tungsten carbide, tool wear

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How to cite this article:
G. Ramaguru, T. Nagaveni, Atul Ramesh Bhagat, K. Saraswathamma. Effect of machining parameters on the tool wear in drilling of 3D PF C/C composite. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(04):-.
How to cite this URL:
G. Ramaguru, T. Nagaveni, Atul Ramesh Bhagat, K. Saraswathamma. Effect of machining parameters on the tool wear in drilling of 3D PF C/C composite. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(04):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=246714


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
04
Received 30/05/2026
Accepted 09/06/2026
Published 15/06/2026
Publication Time 16 Days
16

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