Optimization of machining parameters in turning of hybrid aluminium-matrix (LM24–SiCp–coconut shell ash) composite

Abstract

In any machining process, the vital part is determination of the optimum values for the process parameters to attain the highest desired quality at a low machining cost. This paper mainly focuses on the surface-roughness optimization in the turning of a hybrid aluminium-matrix (LM24-SiCp-coconut shell ash) composite through the Taguchi method and a genetic algorithm. All composite samples for the study were prepared under the optimal squeeze-casting conditions and experimental trials were selected based on the L9 (3) 4 orthogonal array. The main response considered in this study related to the surface roughness, and machining parameters such as the cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut and tool-nose radius were taken into consideration. The surface roughness was tested on the composites turned with a high-speed CNC lathe machine. From the experimental data, a regression model of the surface roughness was developed. The optimum machining conditions were obtained through the Taguchi method and a genetic algorithm and checked through confirmation experiments. In this study, it was concluded that the genetic algorithm used for determining the optimum machining conditions showed better results than the experimental outcome based on the orthogonal array and the optimum conditions obtained with the Taguchi method.