Rice-husk fiber reinforced composite (RFRC) drilling parameters optimization using RSM based desirability function approach

Abstract

This study conducts with the drilling process optimization of rice husk fiber-reinforced polymer composite (RFRC) using the response surface method (RSM)-based desirability function approach. There were four important input factors used for the milling process performance analysis: screw speed, feed rate, type of resin, and drill bit. The results showed that spindle speed and resin type are highly influential parameters on surface roughness, however, the tool and resin type are enormously affecting on delamination. Likewise, the Kevlar drill provided better effectiveness in this cutting process. The variance analysis (ANOVA) indicates that the experimental data is well correlated achieving a 95% confidence interval. Furthermore, this technique determined the significance level according to its factors and their combinations. Hence, the optimized results showed the polyester resin composite plus rice husk, by means of the desirability of 0.678, is the best combination. The results of roughness, input, and output delamination factors were 1.167 μm, 1.3175, and 1.5348, respectively. Finally, it can be seen how the tool thrust force is the main cause of delamination by using the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Additionally, a clean-cut was presented not only by the polyester matrix fiber fragility but also by the superior machinability.