Characterization and optimization of Abrasive Water Jet Machining parameters of aluminium/tungsten carbide composites

The present study aims to optimize the Abrasive Water Jet Machining parameters while machining aluminium/tungsten carbide composites. Investigations were carried on 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 wt% tungsten carbide reinforced composite specimens fabricated by stir casting technique. Response surface methodology was employed to explore the influence of abrasive jet parameters and their relations on the responses. Microstructure of the machined surfaces was examined by scanning electron microscope. Material removal rate is greatly influenced by transverse speed followed by % reinforcement and standoff distance respectively, while surface roughness is highly influenced by % tungsten carbide followed by transverse speed and standoff distance. The optimum parameter set in maximizing the material removal rate and minimizing the surface roughness is standoff distance -4.22 mm, transverse speed -223.28 mm/min, and percentage WC - 2.10%. The experimental results and multi response optimization obtained provide a technical database for industrial applications.