Application of Taguchi method for cutting force optimization in rock sawing by circular diamond sawblades

Abstract

In this paper, an optimization study was carried out for the cutting force (Fc) acting on circular diamond sawblades in rock sawing. The peripheral speed, traverse speed, cut depth and flow rate of cooling fluid were considered as operating variables and optimized by using Taguchi approach for the Fc. L16(44) orthogonal array was chosen for the experimental trials based on the operating variables and their levels. The signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed to determine optimum cutting conditions and significant operating variables, respectively. The Fc was also modelled based on the operating variables using regression analysis. The developed model was then verified using various statistical approaches. The results revealed that the operating variables of circular diamond sawblades can be precisely optimized by Taguchi approach for the Fc in rock sawing. The cut depth and peripheral speed were statistically determined as the significant operating variables affecting Fc. Furthermore, the modelling results showed that the proposed model can be effectively used for the prediction of Fc in practical applications.