Multiperformance Optimization in Turning of Free-Machining Steel Using Taguchi Method and Utility Concept

This article presents the application of Taguchi method and the utility concept for optimizing the machining parameters in turning of free-machining steel using a cemented carbide tool. A set of optimal process parameters, such as feed rate, cutting speed, and depth of cut on two multiple performance characteristics, namely, surface roughness and metal removal rate (MRR) is developed. The experiments were planned as per L9 orthogonal array. The optimal level of the process parameters was determined through the analysis of means (ANOM). The relative importance among the process parameters was identified through the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The ANOVA results indicated that the most significant process parameter is cutting speed followed by depth of cut that affect the optimization of multiple performance characteristics. The confirmation tests with optimal levels of machining parameters were carried out to illustrate the effectiveness of Taguchi optimization method. The optimization results revealed that a combination of higher levels of cutting speed and depth of cut along with feed rate in the medium level is essential in order to simultaneously minimize the surface roughness and to maximize the MRR.