Optimization of drilling parameters on hybrid natural fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites

Abstract

The natural fiber reinforced composites are highly utilized in the applications of building and construction industry, storage containers, transportation industry and in other industrial applications. The natural fibers are preferred for its distinct properties than synthetic fibers. Natural fibers are economically cheaper, recyclable and ecologically biodegradable. Many studies were proposed by the researchers to improve the machinability and mechanical behaviour of natural fiber reinforced composites. The addition of filler material is a kind of approach to improve the property of natural fiber reinforced composites. In this study the composite laminates are created by reinforcing bi-directional bast type jute and unidirectional leaf made sisal fibers into an epoxy LY556 resin matrix material. The silicon carbide (SiC) is used as filler material. Two types of composite laminates are manufactured. The first sample is considered in the ratio of 70% epoxy resin to 30% Jute + Sisal fiber composition without any filler material. The second composition includes the ratio of 70% epoxy resin to 30% Jute + Sisal fiber along with 10% SiC as filler material. The hardner HY951 of 10% is used in both compositions. The machining operation was performed by using HSS twist drill for three different machining parameters (Drill bit type, Spindle speed and Feed rate). The circularity and surface roughness are considered as output parameters. The machining is performed in the range of 20 different combinations as directed by the RSM software. The conformation tests are carried out to validate the RSM results. The optimization results shows that the sample with SiC filler exhibits better machinability behaviour than sample without filler material.