Optimisation of Parameters for Metal Part Cutting on a CNC Plasma Cutting Machine

Abstract

This paper refers to the topic of determining the kerf value and axis accuracy of a CNC plasma cutter for the cutting of 2, 4 and 6 mm thick plates of construction steel, aluminum and stainless steel. After the thorough description of the researched materials, a detailed experiment plan was created in the Design-Expert software package. After cutting the test samples the data were measured. Upon completion of the cutting, all test samples were measured, and the data regarding their dimensional deviations on x and y-axis and bore diameter deviations was tabularly shown and analysed with the Design – Expert software. Statistical analysis of the measured data was made so that the optimal kerf values and the equations which describe dimensional deviations for each material and thickness could be made, based on the dimensional deviation of the test samples. Along with the kerf values, analysis has also given insight in the accuracy of the x and y-axis of the machine. Finally, an algorithm for optimizing multiple criteria was utilized to determine the ideal kerf value for each material and thickness. The objective was to identify the precise kerf value that results in the highest possible accuracy for the dimensions of the workpiece in both the x and y directions, as well as for the bore diameter.