Optimization of process parameters in drilling of GFRP composite using Taguchi method

The objective of the present work is to optimize process parameters namely, cutting speed, feed, point angle and chisel edge width in drilling of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites. In this work, experiments were carried out as per the Taguchi experimental design and an L9 orthogonal array was used to study the influence of various combinations of process parameters on hole quality. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was conducted to determine the significance of each process parameter on drilling. The results indicate that feed rate is the most significant factor influencing the thrust force followed by speed, chisel edge width and point angle; cutting speed is the most significant factor affecting the torque, speed and the circularity of the hole followed by feed, chisel edge width and point angle. This work is useful in selecting optimum values of various process parameters that would not only minimize the thrust force and torque but also reduce the delimitation and improve the quality of the drilled hole. (C) 2013 Brazilian Metallurgical, Materials and Mining Association. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda.