Journals Proceedings

Abstract

The primarily application of Niobium based Super-alloys is in the manufacturing of Space propulsion system due to it’s light weight , ability to withstand high stress levels at elevated temperatures and also have a low ductile-to-brittle transition temperature for withstanding high frequency vibrations at cryogenic temperatures. Niobium C-103 is selected due to its excellent fabric ability, high melting point and Corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures. It is important to choose the best machining parameters for achieving optimum performance characteristics. In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the effect of cutting parameters (cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut) on surface roughness and cutting force in finish hard turning experiments of niobium C-103 on Retrofitted VDF lathe using PVD coated Tungsten Carbide insert in Dry conditions. The methodologies used for optimizing the machining parameters are based on the integrated approach of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Grey relational Analysis (GRA). RSM is very effective when several inputs affect output response and take lesser time for optimization. In RSM Central composite Design for experiment is used, since it gives a comparatively accurate prediction of all response variables averages. GRA is a technique which converts a multiple response process optimization problem into a single response optimization problem. In GRA Taguchi’s L’9 orthogonal array design is used and the relatively significant parameters is determined by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The result and conclusion are drawn on the basis of comparison between the two methodologies.(Abstract)