Multi Response DEA-Based Taguchi Optimization of Process Parameters on AA8011 Friction Stir Welded Aluminium Alloys

Abstract

In this investigation, an attempt using data envelopment analysis based Taguchi method, is involved in solving the multi-response optimization of the process parameters of rotational speed, transverse speed, tool tilt angle with different tool pin profiles on the stir zone evolution in AA8011 Aluminium alloys. Three different tool pin profiles (hexagonal, pentagonal pin profiles of High Carbon High Chromium steel and Hexagonal tool pin profile of H13 steel) have been used to make the joints at the different combination of process parameters using L9 orthogonal array. The Vickers hardness and Impact strength are measured to optimize the process parameters using DEA based Taguchi method. It is found that the optimum conditions of rotational speed 660 RPM, transverse speed of 30 mm per minute and tilt angle of 2 degrees with the hexagonal tool pin profile of High Carbon High Chromium steel yielded a good quality weld.