Finite Element modelling (FEM) of orthogonal cutting of Idealized carbon fiber reinforced plastics (I-CFRP) specimens has been presented in this work. I-CFRP specimens were prepared by embedding carbon fibre tows in an epoxy matrix at 5 mm center to center spacing. Force signals and full-field strains were measured during orthogonal cutting. 3D-FE modelling of the process has been done in ABAQUS/Explicit. Failure mechanisms during orthogonal cutting have been incorporated in the FE model through a cohesive zone model of the fibre-matrix interface, and a ductile damage criteria with damage evolution has been employed for the epoxy matrix. The model shows that matrix damage is significant with marginal fibre matrix debonding. Strains in the model have been compared with results from DIC and show a close match.

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