Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) have been extensively used in the aviation field due to their superior physical properties and flexible structural functions. Drilling is a critical manufacturing process to realize the assembly of CFRP structural parts. Due to the heterogeneous and anisotropic characteristics of CFRPs

the hole-making process entails complex chip removal and surface generation mechanisms

prone to serious machining-induced defects. To date

worldwide scholars have carried out numerous investigations on the defect formation and suppression mechanisms of CFRPs. Based on the comprehensive literature survey

this paper firstly describes the chip removal mechanisms and drilling process of CFRPs

then classifies the CFRP drilling defect modes

and briefly reviews the CFRP drilling defects such as delamination

tearing

burrs

etc. The fundamental formation mechanisms of these defects are investigated

and the impacts of process conditions on the generation of CFRP hole defects are discussed. Finally

this paper summarizes the existing defect suppression strategies for CFRPs and points out the future development directions