Numerical modeling of micro-friction and fiber orientation effects on the machinability of green composites

Abstract

This paper aims to enhance the predictiveness of a finite element (FE) model for machining of natural fiber composites through a tribological approach based on the micro-friction phenomenon between the cutting tool and the components of the composite structure. A 2D micromechanical model for orthogonal cutting of flax fibers reinforced polylactic-acid (PLA) composites is considered in this study at different orientation of fibers. Results show that the numerical thrust forces are significantly affected by the variation of the micro-friction in the model. An optimized value of the micro-friction coefficient has been found to fit with the experimental results. The FE model provides the ability to calculate with good accuracy the effect of fiber orientation on the machinability of flax/PLA composites.