Optimization of machining parameters in drilling of aluminium matrix composite (Al7050-12 wt% ZrO2) using Taguchi technique

This study focused on optimizing the drilling variables for minimizing the surface roughness (Ra) of Al7050 alloy-based composite using Taguchi technique. The stir casting route was adopted to synthesis the Al7050 matrix composite with addition of 12 wt% ZrO2 particles as reinforcement. The different process parameters such as spindle speed (v), feed (f), and depth of cut (d) were chosen as the input parameters, while the Ra was considered as the output response. Based on the parameters selection, the drilling process was carried out on Taguchi L-16 orthogonal design. The SN (signal-to-noise) ratio and ANOVA (analysis of variance) were applied to yield the optimal setting of the process parameters and their impact contribution on Ra for the drilled composite. The SN ratio results identified that the minimum value of Ra was achieved at 1600 rpm of spindle speed, 0.12 mm/rev of feed, and 1.0 mm of depth of cut. ANOVA result indicated that the most noteworthy parameter for Ra was feed (62.24%), followed by spindle speed (26.24%). The contour graphs revealed that the Ra value drastically reduced when an increase in depth of cut (d) and decrease in feed (f). The regression model has been formulated to establishing the relationship of drilling parameters on Ra.