A novel approach based on digital image analysis to evaluate the delamination factor after drilling composite laminates

Fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) laminates are prone to delaminate when subjected to stresses concentration during machining operations, more specifically drilling. The aim of this work is to present a novel technique to measure the adjusted delamination factor (F-da) using digital analysis. An experimental design is proposed for drilling FRP laminates under distinct cutting conditions. The digital analysis of the damage was conducted in order to assess the delamination factor. The experimental results indicated that the use of digital analysis is suitable to estimate the damages produced after drilling carbon fibre reinforced plastics. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.