Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is aerospace and automotive material. Standard carbide wears in minutes; the right tool lasts thousands of holes.
Why Composites Are Different
CFRP fibers are abrasive (Mohs 7+), matrix is heat-sensitive. Wrong tools cause:
- Delamination — layers separate at hole edges
- Fiber pull-out — uncut fibers protrude
- Resin smearing — heat melts matrix
Tool Material
| Volume | Tool | Tool Life |
|---|---|---|
| Prototype | Diamond-coated carbide | 500-2000 holes |
| Production | PCD-tipped | 10k-50k holes |
| Aerospace | CVD diamond coating | 20k+ holes |
Geometry
- Drills — Brad-point or dagger-point prevent delamination
- Routers — Compression cut (down-cut top + up-cut bottom)
- End mills — Diamond pattern teeth
Cutting Parameters
For 6mm PCD drill in CFRP: Vc 60-120 m/min, feed 0.05-0.10 mm/rev (LOWER than aluminum to prevent delamination). Often dry with vacuum dust extraction.
Safety
CFRP dust is conductive and respiratory hazard. Always machine with HEPA dust extraction.
For PCD-tipped tools, contact us via WhatsApp +1 336-979-8015.
