Hybrid Taguchi-PCA-utility approach for simultaneous optimisation of multiple responses in turning alloy steel

This study focussed on the multi-response optimisation of turning process using an easier and accurate hybrid approach namely Taguchi-PCA-Utility approach. Turning of alloy steel under dry and LN2-assisted cryogenic cooling with two different geometry-shaped uncoated carbide inserts was carried out based on suitable design of experiments (Taguchi L16 orthogonal array). Five vital responses in turning such as temperature, roughness, feed force, cutting force and MRR were measured by varying the input factors (speed, feed, cutting condition and cutting inserts type). Principal component analysis (PCA) for relative weight calculation of responses and utility concept for deriving out the unified process index were followed. The optimum parameter settings for maximum utility value were found at 134 m/min speed with 0.12 mm/rev feed rate under cryogenic cooling using SNMG 120408-type cutting insert. Finally, in order to verifying the significance of proposed approach validation tests were conducted.