Optimization of multiple kerf quality characteristics for cutting operation on carbon–basalt–Kevlar29 hybrid composite material using pulsed Nd:YAG laser using GRA

Abstract

Fibre-reinforced polymers are utilized for different industrial applications. Hybridization of such fibre polymers aids in upgrading their performance. Kevlar-29, basalt fibre, and carbon fibre find tremendous use in automotive, defense and aerospace industries. These applications require precision machining with very close tolerances. In this research, such an attempt has been made to measure the values of top kerf width, and bottom kerf width, cut with a pulsed Nd:YAG laser on a 1.92mm thick hybrid composite laminate having fibre volume fraction of 55.2%, and further optimize them using grey relational analysis. Input parameters such as pulse width, gas pressure, lamp current, standoff distance, and cutting speed have been experimentally varied for 42 combinations which have been designed with the help of Box Behnken design. Effects of parameters individual contribution towards the kerf quality have been discussed. With the help of grey relational analysis, optimal results were obtained at lamp current of 200A, pulse width of 2.5ms, 2mm of standoff distance, compressed air pressure of 12kg/cm2 and cutting speed of 200mm/min. The values of the kerf width showed a significant reduction of 15.28% and 12.81% when optimal values of input parameters were used.