Multi Characteristics Optimization During Milling of Friction Stir Processed Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic Composites

AbstractAccurate machining processes like milling, drilling, cutting, grinding etc are essential for the extended applications of glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) in many engineering fields such as aerospace, marine and machinery. In this study, GFRP plates were friction stir processed (FSP) with an aim to enhance their microstructural properties. The friction stir processed plates were then subjected to milling with solid carbide K6 end mill tool. Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array was used for experimental design. The milling process parameters such as spindle speed, feed and depth of cut at three levels (different FSP feed rates of 15mm/min, 20mm/min and 25mm/min) were optimized with multiple performance considerations of surface roughness and delamination. Multi optimization of machining parameters was done through desirability function analysis. The optimum machining parameters have been identified by a composite desirability value obtained from desirability function analysis. The performance index and significant contribution of process parameters were determined by analysis of variance