Drilling Carbon Fiber

[granitestatedestroyer]

I need to enbiggen a 3mm hole to 5mm through about half an inch of carbon fiber.

I assume there's nothing special about it? Will a regular twist drill bit work fine?

 

[[486]]

it's like fiberglass
real abrasive on the tool and you might get some tearing on the ends
don't snort the dust

 

[Stuck]

Use sharp HSS bits and drill from both sides to prevent tear out. You can put tape on the surface to help with flaking.

 

[tracyb]

i think i'd use a car reamer. but really depends on what it is and how critical.

 

[sheriff]

A burr bit would be a good choice, but as mentioned depends on required accuracy. A new, sharp bit is required.

 

[granitestatedestroyer]

I ended up just sending a regular twist drill bit through it.

I ran it faster than I would have for a metal, don't know why, just felt smarter.

Worked fine.