Abstract
Abrasive Waterjet Machining (AWJM) is considered a viable alternative to conventional machining processes, due to its capability of rendering even complex features on parts with high productivity. However, it is currently also important for manufacturing processes to comply with the various aspects of sustainability, by putting emphasis on the environmental dimension apart from the economic. Although AWJM generally is considered an inherently environmentally friendly process, it is required that thorough experimental studies be carried out to evaluate the sustainability of AWJM under various conditions. In the present work, AWJM experiments under various conditions were conducted on a Ti-6Al-4V workpiece in order to determine the optimal conditions leading to a high degree of sustainability in this process based on several indicators. The experiments were carried out using glass beads, which act as an eco-friendly abrasive. After the basic outcome of the experiment was analyzed to determine the correlations between process parameters and depth of penetration, kerf width, and kerf taper angle, sustainability analysis with the aid of Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) was conducted. The optimum solution provided a sufficiently high score regarding both the economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability.
Highlights
Grey Relational Coefficients are calculated for each indicator and are aggregated, firstly according to their subcategory with equal coefficients, e.g., in the case of quality, and the Grey Relational Grade is calculated in every case
Experimental tests regarding Abrasive Waterjet Machining (AWJM) of Ti-6Al-4V were carried out in order to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the sustainability of AWJM of hard-to-cut materials
Glass beads were selected as the abrasive materials, and various important quantities such as depth of penetration, kerf width, and kerf taper angle were measured
Summary
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. 21st century, a challenge for industry is to both manufacture components with the best quality at the lowest possible cost and achieve a clean and sustainable production This ecological aspect is related to efficient waste management [3] combined with lowering energy and time consumption, recycling, and generally minimizing the environmental impact of manufacturing processes [4]. Based on the literature review, it can be seen that there is a lack of comprehensive work on sustainability assessment of AWJ machining based on several indicators In this experimental study, a sustainability assessment of AWJM of Ti-6Al-4V under various process conditions was carried out, taking into consideration indicators from both economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability. After the experimental results are analyzed, the sustainability of each experimental case is evaluated by means of GRA in order to determine the optimum conditions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
