Enhancing Transparency and Trust in Turbofan Engine Classification: Leveraging Explainable AI

Abstract

Implementing predictive maintenance is paramount in guaranteeing the dependability and efficiency of intricate industrial systems. Classification approaches have been extensively utilized to detect and anticipate potential malfunctions in acknowledged systems. Numerous machine learning algorithms exhibit effectiveness, yet they encounter interpretability issues, posing a challenge in comprehending the fundamental factors contributing to their predictions. This study investigates the utilization of machine learning algorithms for classification in the domain of predictive maintenance. This research focuses on applying Random Forest, XGBoost, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) algorithms for Turbofan Engine classification into multiple categories. We use Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) methodologies to mitigate the interpretability challenges commonly associated with black-box models. We aim to utilize XAI algorithms on the most effective models to elucidate the essential characteristics and decision-making procedures underlying the classification outcomes. The findings of our experiment indicate that the Random Forest algorithm based on ensemble learning and the XGBoost algorithm based on gradient boosting exhibit superior classification accuracy. Additionally, the utilization of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) algorithms amplifies the transparency and interpretability of said models, thereby facilitating a more profound comprehension of the determinants that impact the classification results. The results of this study make a valuable contribution to predictive maintenance by demonstrating the efficacy of machine learning algorithms in multiclass classification and emphasizing the significance of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) in furnishing practical insights for decision-making.