Predictive model and process parameters optimization of Nd:YAG laser micro-turning of ceramics

The present work highlights laser micro-turning operation of 10-mm diameter cylindrical-shaped alumina (Al₂O₃) ceramic using pulsed Nd:YAG laser. The paper also addresses development of mathematical models for correlating the various micro-machining parameters such as laser beam average power, pulse frequency, workpiece rotational speed, assist air pressure, and Y feed rate with the response criteria such as surface roughness and deviation in turned depth for achieving desired surface quality as well as dimensional accuracy during micro-turning operation using Nd:YAG laser system. Response surface methodology-based design of experiments has been adopted for the experimentation. This investigation also highlights the various test results that confirm the validity and correctiveness of the developed mathematical models through analysis of variance test. The test results were analyzed through various response surface plots to study the effect of the process parameters on the aforementioned responses. The results of validation experimentation show a good agreement for the developed empirical models. Sensitivity analyses of the developed models have been done to find out the variation in the output with respect to variations in the significant input process parameters. Moreover, multi-performance optimization has been done to find out the optimal parametric setting for achieving the desired process performances. Analysis also has been made based on scanning electron microscopy micrographs of the laser micro-turned surface achieved during machining at multi-criteria optimization setting.