AFM investigation in grinding process with nanofluids using Taguchi analysis

Nanofluids for grinding process are prepared by mixing the multiwall carbon nanotubes with SAE20W40 oil. In this experimental study, the surface roughness and micro cracks are analysed. The material AISI D3 tool steel is most frequently use for mould and dies which is preferred to analyse the surface characteristics. Experimental results indicate that the surface finish of the machined work piece increases from micro level to nano level. L8 orthogonal array was used to optimize the machining parameters in Taguchi design of experiment technique using Minitab 15 software. Empirical model for the prediction of output parameters has been developed using regression analysis and the results are compared empirically for with and without nanofluids in grinding process. The analysis of variance and F test were used to determine the significant parameter affecting the surface roughness. Atomic force microscopy analysis indicated that carbon nanotube mixed with nanofluid in grinding process has improved the surface characteristics like surface roughness and micro cracks.