Mechanistic force modeling for milling of carbon fiber reinforced polymers with double helix tools

Abstract

Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) have emerged as the material of choice to satisfy increasing demand for lighter aircrafts. Machinability characteristics of CFRPs are quite different than those of metals; therefore, special tool designs have been developed for CFRP machining. The double helix end mill design compresses the upper and lower sides of the laminate using opposite helix angles that eliminate delamination. A mechanistic force model for double helix tools is developed based on milling force data obtained on flat end mills. The proposed model can be used to improve double helix tool designs and to optimize milling process parameters.