Title: Multiobjective process optimisation for turning of tool steels

Authors: Tzeng Yih-Fong, Chen Fu-Chen

Addresses: Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, National Kaohsiung First University of Science and Technology, 1 University Rd, Yenchao, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan, ROC. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kun Shan University, No. 949, Da Wan Rd., Yung-Kang City, Tainan Hsien 710, Taiwan, ROC

Abstract: A simple methodology for an effective multiobjective process optimisation of machining conditions of multipass lathe operation is developed. The approach integrates the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Taguchi methods to optimise the Computerised Numerical Control (CNC) turning process. The targeted Multiple Quality Characteristics (MQCs) are the Dimensional Precision (DP), accuracy and Surface Roughness (SR) of the machined products. Eight control factors such as coolant, cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, coating type, chipbreaker geometry, nose radius and shape of the insert arranged in a L18 orthogonal array are investigated using the Taguchi method. According to the PCA of the experimental results, the verification test of the optimal process conditions shows that the optimal conditions successfully produce the best results on the DP and accuracy and SR. The optimal solution obtained can also be conveniently implemented in the part programmes of a CNC lathe. It is believed that such work can provide a wider acceptance and more practical application of machining economics in industry.

Keywords: principal component analysis; PCA; CNC turning; Taguchi methods; multiobjective optimisation; tool steels; dimensional accuracy; surface roughness; process optimisation; machinability; CNC lathes; machining economics; coolant; cutting speed; feed rate; depth of cut; coating types; chipbreaker geometry; nose radius; insert shape; orthogonal arrays.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMM.2006.010659

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials, 2006 Vol.1 No.1, pp.76 - 93

Published online: 14 Aug 2006 *

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