Optimization of Process Parameters in Diamond Abrasive Machining of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy

Edge trimming of carbon fiber-reinforced composites was conducted using diamond abrasive cutters, and the effect of feed rate, spindle speed, and depth of cut on machining quality was investigated. Cutting forces, specific cutting energy, surface roughness, and workpiece temperature were measured and analyzed. It was found that depth of cut is the most important parameter to influence machinability. Trimming with low equivalent chip thickness values was found to be the most suitable in terms of the level of machining responses and machining damage. The cutting temperatures were found to exceed the glass transition temperature of the epoxy matrix when machining with large depth of cut.