Title: Multi objective optimisation of SWCNT-based electrical discharge machining process using grey relational and fuzzy logic analysis

Authors: S. Prabhu; B.K. Vinayagam

Addresses: School of Mechanical Engineering, SRM University, Chennai-603203, India ' Department of Mechatronics Engineering, SRM University, Chennai-603203, India

Abstract: The multi response optimisation of process parameters like surface roughness (SR) and metal removal rate (MRR) of electrical discharge machining (EDM) of carbon nano tube (CNT) mixed dielectric fluid using grey relational analysis are performed. Experiments are performed with designated EDM conditions obtained using an L9 orthogonal array. Based on the results of the grey relational analysis a set of optimum EDM parameters is obtained. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) approach is used to find the significant parameters influencing the EDM machining process. The results show that the optimum machining conditions determined using grey relational analysis are much better than the original preliminary set of experimental conditions. Atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to analysis the surface characteristics such as surface roughness, micro cracks and topography of CNT-based machining surface. The paper describes the application of a fuzzy logic system to investigate precision and accuracy of EDM process parameters for determining the efficiency of each parameter influencing the machining for with and without using CNT mixed dielectric fluid.

Keywords: carbon nanotubes; CNT mixed dielectric fluids; electric discharge machining; EDM; atomic force microscope; AFM; grey relational analysis; GRA; fuzzy logic; multi-objective optimisation; surface roughness; metal removal rate; MRR; orthogonal arrays; electro-discharge machining; ANOVA; micro cracks.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMM.2013.054276

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials, 2013 Vol.13 No.4, pp.439 - 463

Received: 29 Feb 2012
Accepted: 05 Oct 2012

Published online: 26 Dec 2013 *

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