Work

Enhanced MQL cooling technique for hole quality in carbon fiber reinforced composites: A study on the influence of nanographene in drilling process

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRPs) are widely used in aerospace due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and durability, yet drilling remains challenging because of delamination and poor surface quality. This study explores the effect of nanographene-enhanced minimum quantity lubrication (NMQL) on drilling aerospace-grade CFRPs, a novel approach compared to conventional nanoparticle-based MQL. Drilling trials were performed at feed rates of 0.05, 0.065, and 0.08 mm/rev with graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) concentrations of 0.5 and 1 wt.%. Hole quality was assessed by surface roughness, delamination, and dimensional accuracy. The best performance was obtained at 0.5 wt.% GNP and 0.05 mm/rev, reducing average surface roughness by up to 43.9% compared to base-fluid MQL. These results highlight the potential of graphene-assisted lubrication to improve hole quality in CFRP drilling while supporting more sustainable and resource-efficient aerospace manufacturing.

Source: Results in Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2026.110005

Authors: Mustafa Burak Sağener, Oğuz Çolak

Institution: Eskisehir Technical University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced machining processes and optimization

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,940

Funder: Türk Havacılık ve Uzay Sanayii