Cutting a drilling CF?

[Paul Taylor]

What’s the best way of cutting and drilling CF without damage?

I have some CF gear I need to trim a little and drill some holes for axles and mounting bolts.
Thanks

[Howard Rush]

A high speed steel 1/8” drill will go through 2” of carbon composite before it’s defunct. A carbide bit is better. Spin the bit fast. You can use isopropyl alcohol as lube. Diamond scroll saw blade from Amazon works great for cutting composite. Sandpaper works too.

[Paul Taylor]

Thanks Howard.
I need to trim some off. Can I use a Dremel tool with a cut off wheel?

[Doug Moisuk]

Mak nd glove up when cutting, drilling and sanding CF.

[Paul Taylor]

Mak nd glove up when cutting, drilling and sanding CF.

I assume you suggesting mask up.

Yep was planning on it. But did not think about gloves. Good idea and noted. 👍🏼

[Motorman]

Dremel tool cut off disk works great on composite stuff. Belt sander is nice too. Cut and sand lightly or you'll fuzz the end. I try not to use saw blades, they go south quick. I use one of those respirators with the rubber face cup from home depot. It's the only thing I've found that doesn't leak. Once that CF is inside your body, it don't leave. That stuff floats in the air for a long time so, do your job then leave the area for a while.

Motorman

[John Rist]

Dremel tool cut off disk works great on composite stuff. Belt sander is nice too. Cut and sand lightly or you'll fuzz the end. I try not to use saw blades, they go south quick. I use one of those respirators with the rubber face cup from home depot. It's the only thing I've found that doesn't leak. Once that CF is inside your body, it don't leave. That stuff floats in the air for a long time so, do your job then leave the area for a while.

Motorman

Harbor freight also has a good mask.

https://www.harborfreight.com/p95-maintenance-free-dual-cartridge-respirator-66554.html

[Paul Taylor]

Good input. Thanks guys.
Got mask and gloves.
Now to find a shady spot outside. 😎

[Howard Rush]

Good advice on the Dremel disks and belt sander.