| Abstract: | Cutting test specimens from molded plaques is commonly used in mechanical testing. The mechanical properties of these cut specimens may be affected by cutting process as it could introduce extrinsic flaws and thermal effects on cut edge surfaces. The objective of this experimental research is to determine how band saw cutting affects the flexural and impact strengths of 33% short glass fiber (GF) reinforced polyamide 66 (PA66) and unreinforced PA66. The specimens for the flexural and impact tests were obtained by cutting molded plaques using different blade types, blade speeds, feed rates, and levels of polishing. Results were compared with those from uncut specimens. Surface morphologies of the specimens' cut edges (photographs and roughness) were assessed using Scanning Electron Microscopy and PRK Perthometer, respectively. The results indicated that higher flexural and impact strengths of cut specimens of 33% GF reinforced PA66 were achieved with high blade speed, low work piece feed rate and using a high number of teeth per unit length. For unreinforced PA66, higher impact strengths were achieved at low blade speeds and work piece feed rates. |
