Kennametal B55_DAL drill produces high quality holes in CFRP-metal sandwiches
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The B55_DAL solid carbide drill from Kennametal is designed for the drilling 4.763 to 15.875 mm diameter high quality fastener holes in CFRP-metal stacks. The drill can be applied to all combinations of stacks: CFRP-Ti-Al as well as CFRP-Ti, CFRP-Al, and also straight Ti or Al.
The aerospace industry continues to research the use of stacks of composite fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRP) sandwiched between titanium for the manufacture of lightweight high strength components. Drilling fastener holes efficiently challenges cutting tools by requiring high wear resistance and optimum tool geometries, due to the substantially different mechanical properties of carbon fibres and metals, explains Kennametal.
Kennametal says that the B55_DAL drill's double-angle point design provides excellent centreing capability and a sharp edge to cut CFRPs in the top layer of stacks cleanly and cleanly exit the titanium or aluminum side – minimising the risk of burrs and delamination. The fine grain solid carbide Beyond KN15 grade is highly polished to facilitate chip evacuation even with MQL or dry operation.
A broad range of diameters and length variations are available to accommodate all hole making operations, including those using robots or automated drilling units. In addition, the stack drills can be reground to original process specifications.
