Abstract:

A mechanics model for predicting the orthogonal cutting forces of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics (UCFRP) with fiber orientation varying from 0° to 90° is developed. Based on the experimental inspection and understanding, the model divides the cutting zone into three characteristic regions, i.e., chipping, pressing and bouncing regions. The cutting tool geometry, such as rake angle and nose radius, and other parameters, such as depth of cut and mechanical properties of the workpiece materials, are also considered in the modeling. A systematic comparison of the model predictions of cutting forces with experimental measurements show that the mechanics model developed captures very well the mechanism of cutting unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics.

Key words: unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics, cutting forces, orthogonal cutting, deformation regions, fiber orientation