The effects of through tool cryogenic machining on the hole quality in GLARE® fibre metal laminates

GLARE® is a composite-metal laminate currently used in the Airbus A380 fuselage due to its excellent impact and fatigue performance. undergo extensive drilling for riveting purposes making it prone thermal effects increased tool wear. Therefore, using coolants becomes necessary, however, conventional can lead moisture absorption. An alternative use cryogenic their positive on machining aerospace materials past. In this study, through technology laminates by delivering liquid nitrogen at −196 °C spindle allowing coolant be direct continuous contact with cutting zone. The aim investigate of parameters cooling surface roughness, hole size, circularity hardness entry exit sides. addition, microstructural evaluation scanning electron microscopy. results indicate that improved finish gave better size top, while had no circularity. was sides compared observed dry tests microscopy revealed burr formation minimised.