Machining polymer matrix composites

In accordance with the title of this article, the term "composites" refers to materials whose matrix is a polymer, and not to ceramic or metal composites. Composite materials are mostly processed by molding; however, machining is quite often practiced 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.

The reader is referred to the specialized articles in the "Composites" section of the Plastics and Composites treatise for further information on their characteristics and molding methods. For a more detailed presentation of the machining processes used for composites, please refer to the specialized articles in this section of the Mechanical Engineering treatise:

• Materials for cutting tools.

• Thermal cutting and waterjet cutting.

• Ultrasonic machining.

• Shooting.

• Cutting tools. Broaching. Trimming.

• Cutting tools. Cutting cylindrical wheels.

• Cutting tools. Cutting bevel gears.