Application of decision analysis to milling profit maximisation: an introduction

This paper describes the application of decision analysis to milling optimisation. In this initial study we include the effects of uncertainty in tool life and force model coefficients. The decisions represent the milling operating parameters. A single-attribute value function is used to maximise profit. Stability of the milling operation, surface location error, and surface roughness pose constraints on the feasible decision alternatives. A numerical study comparing four optimisation scenarios is presented where values of tool life and force model coefficients are either deterministic or uncertain. The optimised results are compared to manufacturer recommendations.