Optimisation of Parameters in Drilling of Spanish Cherry Fiber Reinforced Hybrid Composites using Taguchi Analysis

Abstract

In this research, optimisation of parameters in drilling of Spanish cherry fiber reinforced hybrid composites using Taguchi approach. The composite was fabricated by combining Spanish cherry fiber, vetiver fiber and coir pith with polyester resin, cobalt and a catalyst using compression molding process. The drilling parameters such as drill bit diameter (6, 8, 10 mm), spindle speed (740, 1480, 2220 rpm) and feed rate (80, 160, 240 mm/min) were used to conduct the experiment in order to optimise the thrust force (TF) and surface roughness (SR). The results of S/N ratio and ANOVA revealed that spindle speed was the most influence parameters for TF and SR, followed by drill bit diameter and feed rate. The regression coefficient (R2) for SR and TF was 95.03% and 99.22% respectively. Main effects plot revealed that TF increases with increasing drill bit diameter and feed rate, but it decreases at highest spindle speed. Increased SR was obtained at 6 mm drill bit diameter. Reduced SR was observed at increased spindle speed and feed rate with drill bit diameter of 8 mm and 10 mm. The water absorption rate increases with increasing of exposure time. The lowest water absorption rate of 2.62% was recorded at 24 hrs.