Influence of Glass Fiber Ratio on Machining Characteristics of PA66 Polymer for Aerospace Applications

Abstract

This study examined the machinability of polyamide 66 (PA66) reinforced with glass fiber (GF) at 10%, 20%, and 30%. Cutting speeds of 40, 80 and 120 m/min and feed rates of 0.06, 0.09, and 0.12 mm/rev were used to examine thrust force (Fz) and surface roughness (Ra). Drilling operations were done using uncoated HSS and TiAlN coated HSS cutting tools. The goal of this research is to investigate the effect of cutting parameters (spindle speed and feed rate) and reinforcement ratios on thrust force (Fz) and surface roughness during cutting operations (Ra). Statistical analysis was used to determine the contribution of the cutting parameters to the results that were under investigation. For the purpose of examining the hole quality and damage mechanisms, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed. The surface roughness values obtained in the 30% glass fiber added PA66 material drilled with an uncoated cutting tool were quite high. A high fiber rupture rate on the hole surfaces, matrix fragmentation, and other difficulties resulted in increased thrust force.