Investigation on Surface Roughness of Drilled Holes in Nanoparticle Filled Polymer Matrix Composites

Abstract

The utilization of nanoparticle filled composite materials in many different engineering fields has undergone a tremendous increase. Accordingly, the need for accurate machining of composites has increased enormously. In the present study, an attempt has been made to assess the factors influencing surface roughness on the machining of nanocomposites and base composites. The Taguchi L16 experimental design concept has been used for experimentation. The drilling experiments were conducted considering spindle speed, drill tool diameter, and feed rate as machining parameters. The empirical model was developed based on the input parameters. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) established the relation between predicted and experimental values. The regression model was found to be within the level of confidence with greater accuracy indicated by R2 value. The addition of Nanoclay and Graphene as fillers in the matrix improved the surface roughness of the hole. Feed rate and spindle speed were found to be the significant factors of machining and Graphene reinforced composites had better surface finish.