Investigating Process Parameters of Abrasive Water Jet Machine using EN31

ABSTRACT

This document explains the machining of EN31 steel using an Abrasive Water Jet Machine. The work is aimed at investigating the role of Pressure, Abrasive Mass Flow Rate, Traverse Speed, and Standoff Distance on; Machining Time, Surface Roughness, and Hardness, followed by the optimization of these responses. Taguchi approach and Analysis of Variance are practiced to investigate the effecting features of the process parameters, regarding the responses. A regression model is also developed for efficient study. The experimental optimal data and the responses are calculated through the machining process, while the predicted optimal data is calculated through the various factorial effects plots for signal to noise ratios (SNRs). At the predicted optimal data, the responses are calculated. The validation test confirms the predicted responses and hence the acceptability of the specified model. The experiment reveals the various levels of the particular parameters in the optimization of Machining Time, Surface Roughness, and Hardness. Also, the major and minor contribution of the different parameters is investigated.

KEYWORDS:

• AWJM
• EN31
• Taguchi
• S/N ratio
• ANOVA
• Optimization