Sumitomo Sumidia SDC drills reduce CFRP burrs
Developed by Sumitomo to satisfy growing demand for higher quality holes and improved tool life when drilling carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), the resulting Sumidia diamond coated SDC drill range incorporates special geometry to reduce the likelihood of burring and the onset of delamination.
A newly developed point angle condition for the SDC range involves multi-steps that are able to disperse the tool penetration load over its cutting edge. In addition, the drill's diamond coating delays the point when flank wear starts to cause delamination.
In trials, when producing 7 mm diameter through-holes in 28 mm thick CFRP at 6,000 rpm and 0.1 mm/rev feed, the SDC drill excelled due to the lack of any wear on its flanks, even after 600 holes. Meanwhile, competitor drill types had to be changed at 50 and 25 components. SDC drills are available between 2 and 10 mm diameter.
