Composite machining

Composite materials are mostly processed by moulding; however, machining is often used for various reasons, such as :

• drilling for bolting or riveting ;

• trimming molded parts ;

• small series production ;

• extremely precise dimensions;

• cutting preforms for molding ;

• high-speed die-cutting.

Readers are referred to the specialist articles in this section for further information on their characteristics and molding methods. In this article, "composite materials" refers to those with a polymer matrix, and not to ceramic or metal composites.