[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Re: G10



Original poster: "Gerry  Reynolds" <gerryreynolds@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>

Hi Scott,

Yes, everything you say is true. A machinist will probably want to use TiN coated Colbalt tools and keep the ways covered and clean. A vacuum collection system can aid in the fumes and dust.

Gerry R

Original poster: "huil888" <huil888@xxxxxxxxxxxx>

Gerry -

I should have been more specific. Some of the problems you will encounter when machining fiberglass-epoxy composite material include:

1. Extreme tool wear. The only suitable cutting tools are solid tungsten carbide or diamond. My experience has been that even high quality tool steel loses its edge after very limited cutting, regardless if it has TiN or other anti-wear coatings. Of course, it all depends how much material you are removing. A TiN coated drill bit may "survive" 10 holes, but look at the cutting edge under a microscope and it will be in sad shape.

2. The "swarf" (cuttings) are extremely abrasive, and machine tool ways (when using a milling machine or lathe) must be covered and equipped with a vacuum pick-up right at the cutting tool, and everything must be meticulously cleaned after any machining of fiberglass/epoxy.

3. Any airborne particles (both fiberglass and the epoxy matrix) are very irritating to the skin, and frequently cause skin sensitization after repeat exposures.

4. If the material is overheated by the use of dull cutting tools, the epoxy decomposes and releases noxious fumes. Phenolic material will do this also, but to a lesser extent.

Etc, etc.

Regards,
Scott