Optimization of cutting parameters for surface roughness in turning of studs manufactured from AISI 5140 steel using the Taguchi method

Abstract This study focuses on optimizing cutting parameters based on the Taguchi method to minimize surface roughness in turning of studs manufactured from AISI 5140 steel. The Taguchi method, which is a powerful tool for designing optimized quality, is used to find the optimum surface roughness in turning operations. Rotational speed, feed rate and depth of cut were considered as control factors for the surface roughness, and L9 orthogonal array was determined for experiment trials. An orthogonal array, a signal-to-noise ratio, and an analysis of variance were employed to investigate the surface roughness characteristics of AISI 5140 steel. Minimum surface roughness was obtained at 2000 rpm rotational speed, 0.2 mm × rev −1 feed rate and 0.5 mm depth of cut. Optimal surface roughness was calculated as 1.70 μm by using optimal level of design parameters. Confirmation test showed that Taguchi method can be used precisely for optimizing the cutting parameters in turning of AISI 5140 steel. Through this study, it is possible to not only obtained the optimum surface roughness for turning operations, but also the main cutting parameters affecting the performance of turning operations. The developed model can be used in the metal machining industries in order to determine the optimum cutting parameters for minimum surface roughness.