Optimization of Cutter Geometric Parameters in End Milling of Titanium Alloy Using the Grey-Taguchi Method

Further progress in control of manufacturing process and performance depends on the innovativeness of machine tools after cutting parameter optimization. This paper presents a multiobjective optimization of cutter geometric parameters in end milling of Ti-5Al-5Mo-5V-1Cr-1Fe titanium alloy via Taguchi method in integration with grey relational analysis. Sixteen experiments are conducted by the Taguchi method and analyzed based on the signal-to-noise ratio. Then, the multiple objectives optimization is successfully converted to a single objective optimization of the grey relational grade by the grey relational analysis. The cutter geometric parameters, namely, fluting rake angle, gash angle, helix angle, gash rake angle, and pitch angle difference, are optimized to minimize cutting force, surface roughness, and the acceleration. According to the results of Analysis of variance, the order of importance for the control factors to the multiperformance characteristics, in sequence, is helix angle, gash angle, gash rake angle, pitch angle difference, and fluting rake angle. Experimental results indicate that the multiperformance characteristics can be improved effectively with the grey-Taguchi method.