Multi criteria optimisation using analytic hierarchy process in turning operation

The performance of any metal cutting operation mainly depends on the selection of optimum machining parameters. This study proposes the application of analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to determine the optimal machining parameters in turning operation of EN25 steel with coated carbide tool. The selected machining parameters in this study are cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. This method is employed for simultaneously minimising surface roughness, micro hardness and maximising material removal rate (MRR). This method uses a decision matrix, normalised matrix, calculation of weight criteria and AHP procedure is adopted to obtain optimum machining parameters. The results indicated that the optimum combination of machining parameters is necessary to improve the machining performance. The approach can be used for simultaneous optimisation of other machining process with different processing parameters. © 2017 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.