Cutting

Cutting involves using blades, knives, or abrasive tools to separate or shape composite materials. Precision is paramount to avoid delamination, a separation of the layers within the composite structure. The cutting process can be manual or automated, with careful attention paid to the orientation of the fibers to maintain the material’s integrity. Nearly every composite rod or tube that we ship to customers is cut at one stage or another. We can precision cut to within .005”.

Routing

Routing uses a rotating cutting tool to trim excess material or shape composite materials. This process is especially effective for achieving specific geometries and edge profiles. Computer numerical control (CNC) routers typically enhance precision by allowing for automated and programmable machining, ensuring consistency across multiple parts.

Milling

Milling is a versatile technique in machining composites that utilizes rotary cutters to remove material, shaping the composite into the desired form. This process is suitable for a wide range of composites and allows for producing complex shapes. In addition, CNC milling machines offer enhanced precision and repeatability. Many of our customers request precision-milled notches in the ends of their composite rods and tubes so that they will properly index into their products.

Composite Trimming and Finishing

Composite trimming and finishing encompass the final stages of machining to achieve the desired surface quality and dimensional accuracy. Specialized tools are used to remove excess material and refine the component’s shape. The process may also include polishing or sanding to achieve a smooth surface finish or bonding finish, grinding to attain a specific outside diameter, or chamfering to achieve a soft edge on the end of the composite.

Drilling

Drilling creates holes in composite materials, requiring careful control to prevent fraying or splintering of the workpiece. Specialized drill bits designed for composites — such as diamond-coated or carbide-tipped bits — help achieve clean and accurate holes. The drilling process also considers factors like drill speed, feed rate, and coolant usage to optimize results. Not only is Goodwinds Composites able to drill holes through the side walls of composite rods and tubes, we are also capable of precisely drilling longitudinal holes in the end of the rod.

Maintain Material Properties

Composite materials offer exceptional strength while being lightweight, making them ideal for aerospace, automotive, and other applications where weight reduction is critical. Machining composites allows for precise component shaping without sacrificing the material’s inherent strength.

Design Flexibility

Machining techniques offer design flexibility, allowing the production of intricate and complex shapes that may be challenging or impossible with traditional materials. This is particularly valuable in industries like automotive and aerospace, where aerodynamics and space utilization are crucial.

Cost Efficiency in Production

While the initial cost of composite materials may be higher than traditional materials, their specificity of purpose often leads to overall cost savings in implementation. Machining can help composite rods and tubes fit their purpose exactly and create perfect bonding surfaces.. Composites’ lightweight nature also reduces transportation expenses and energy consumption.

The advanced composites machining capabilities at Goodwinds Composites extend beyond the aerospace and automotive industries, playing a crucial role in marine, sporting goods, and other sectors. This versatility demonstrates our ability to adapt our expertise to a wide range of applications, delivering customized solutions that meet the unique demands of each industry.