This paper presents a solution to the problem of drilling composite structures where backside support is not available.
When drilling composites, the low interlaminar strength of the material can result in splintering and delamination of the hole. The drilling process often relies on some kind of backside support. For applications where backside support or backing material is not cost effective, a diamond coated drill was developed that--even when operated at non-optimum speeds and feed rates--produced a hole free of delaminations. View this paper that describes the tool and its success at unsupported drilling.