Modified Exit-ply Delamination Model for Drilling FRPs

Delamination has been identified as one of the most deleterious damage processes associated with drilling fiber reinforced plastics (FRPs) due to the resulting drastic reduction of structural strength and stiffness. In recent years, several experimental, numerical, and analytical studies have been conducted aimed at understanding delamination initiation and progression during drilling. In this study, a comprehensive review of existing analytical studies has been presented comparing and contrasting their respective advantages and disadvantages. Special emphasis has been laid upon presenting all assumptions made and the underlying implications thereby. Suggestions at improving the existing models so as to facilitate a more realistic description of the drill process using composite lamination theories have also been included.