A surface roughness analysis in turning of polyamide PA-6 using statistical techniques

This work is aimed at studying the impact of cutting conditions (cutting speed and feed) on surface roughness in turning of Polyamide PA-6, using two different cutting tool materials namely, Polycrystalline Diamond (PCD) and K15 cemented carbide. By applying Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to the experimental data, predictive models are developed exhibiting excellent correlation and revealing that feed exerts the strongest influence on roughness, whilst cutting speed has a secondary effect. On the other hand the PCD tool tends to provide better finish. These findings permit optimised selection of cutting conditions and tool materials.