Multi-objective Optimization in through Laser Transmission Welding of Thermoplastics Using Grey-based Taguchi Method

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyse the effects of process parameters on joint strength and weld width of welded acrylic plastic specimens. Process optimization is also made to maximize joint strength as well as minimize of weld width of welded samples. Lap welding has been done by through transmission laser welding with varying process parameters namely current, stand-off distance and clamping pressure. Experiments have been planned as per L9 orthogonal array of Taguchi method. Grey-Taguchi method has been utilized to optimize multi-responses joint strength and weld width simultaneously. Statistical techniques like analysis of variance and signal to noise-ratio have been used to identify the significance of welding variables. The optimal parametric setting has been obtained from main effect plots of signal to noise ratio. The confirmatory test has been conducted to validate the optimized condition and optimization procedure used in the study.