Multi-response optimization of Nd:YAG laser cutting parameters of Ti-6Al-4V superalloy sheet

Abstract

This study proposes a multi-response optimization approach for the Nd: YAG laser cutting parameters of titanium superalloy sheet (Ti-6Al-4V). The Box-Behnken design was utilized to plan the experiments, and response surface methodology was employed to develop experimental models. Four input parameters, including pulse width, pulse energy, cutting speed, and gas pressure, were set during the experiment, and kerf deviation and metal removal rate were considered as the performance characteristics. Pores, dross, and striation lines were observed on the kerf wall of the laser-cut surface through scanning electron microscopy. With the suitable mathematical models established, a search optimization procedure based on the use of desirability function was used to optimize the performance characteristics. A confirmation experiment was also conducted to validate the optimized process parameters. The relative error is less than ±2 %, thus confirming the feasibility and effectiveness of the adopted approach.