Surface roughness optimization in laser machining of stainless steel 304 using response surface methodology

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of input parameters on the surface roughness during laser machining of stainless steel 304. Laser machining is the nontraditional and contactless type machining process. During machining material detached from the workpiece in melting form and being removed by a pressurized gas jet. Laser machining is used for nearly an all-inclusive variety of engineering materials. This research comprehends the impact of laser power, pulse frequency, gas pressure and cutting speed on the surface roughness. Design of experiments (DOE) was applied by a response surface methodology (RSM). The impact of the input parameters on the output has been studied using the main effect plot which was settled by using the analysis of variance (ANOVA). After DOE by using RSM, the analysis was carried by the ANOVA method and the optimum parameters were selected based on the optimization plot. It is revealed that the output parameters in the laser machining can be optimized effectually with methodology.