Optimization of WEDM process of pure titanium with multiple performance characteristics using Taguchi’s DOE approach and utility concept

Abstract

This paper describes the development of multi response optimization technique using utility method to predict and select the optimal setting of machining parameters in wire electro-discharge machining (WEDM) process. The experimental studies in WEDM process were conducted under varying experimental conditions of process parameters, such as pulse on time(T_on), pulse off time(T_off), peak current (IP), wire feed (WF), wire tension (WT) and servo voltage (SV) using pure titanium as work material. Experiments were planned using Taguchi’s L27 orthogonal array. Multi response optimization was performed for both cutting speed (CS) and surface roughness (SR) using utility concept to find out the optimal process parameter setting. The level of significance of the machining parameters for their effect on the CS and SR was determined by using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Finally, confirmation experiment was performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed optimal condition.

Keywords

wire electro-discharge machining (WEDM) / Taguchi method / analysis of variance (ANOVA) / utility concept / cutting speed (CS) / surface roughness (SR)

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2014 Higher Education Press and Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg