Multi-objective Optimization of Turning Parameters for SiC- or Al2O3-Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composites

Abstract

This paper investigates the turning performance of particle-reinforced composite materials in terms of energy consumption and surface quality. The proposal of an experimental design approach pertinent to the optimization of machining parameters in the dry turning of SiC- or Al2O3-reinforced aluminum matrix composites is the novel aspect of the study. A series of the experiment is set using a 2(k) factorial design to get the regression equations for the hardness, surface roughness, and energy consumption during the turning process. Also, the goal programming method is used to determine the optimal values of the factors that achieved minimum energy consumption (4 J), minimum surface roughness (2.5 mu m), and a minimum hardness (100 HRc) of the machined surface for the conventional the dry turning process. As a result of the study, the new optimum machining parameters for SiC-reinforced Al6063 aluminum composite in dry turning process are revealed. Besides, the optimum parameters are introduced as 1668 mm/rev, 1 mm, KNUX 1605X, and SiC-reinforced Al alloy for feed rate, depth of cut, cutting tool material, and working material, respectively.