Machinability analysis of drilled bamboo fibre reinforced polymer (BFRP) composite

Abstract

In globally the technology keep improving continuously from time to time especially in materials development. Many researchers and manufacturer found interested in substituting synthetic with natural materials. By utilizing natural surrounding sources, it will impact on the product improvement and creating environmental awareness. Besides on many available natural fibres for reinforcements, bamboo fibre has been identified as one of reliable reinforcement in polymer matrix. The mechanical properties of bamboo fibre composite at moderate strength compared with another types. However, bamboo is grows naturally in the foothills or can be planted and easily to find in the Peninsular Malaysia. Further machining process on composites such as drilling will affecting strength properties of the composite, this is due to discontinuous of the fibre after drilled. This study will evaluating on influence of machining parameters and tool geometry on residual tensile strength and delamination damage of drilled bamboo fibre reinforced polymer (BFRP) composites. Fabrication of the composite using resin infusion process by vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding. The experiments were developed using Taguchi method and tested according to ASTM D3039 requirement. The results were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Finally, the optimum condition for maximizing residual tensile strength and minimizing delamination factors on the drilled bamboo fibre reinforced composite are suggested.