Multiple Optimization of Cutting Parameters Affecting Kerf Formation and Surface Roughness in Laser Cutting of Al 5052 Alloy

Abstract

In cutting with laser, appropriate cutting parameters should be selected according to the material being cut. Incorrectly selected parameters affect the dimensional accuracy and surface quality of the cut sheets. In this study, 3 mm thick Al 5052 sheet was cut with laser cutting operation. Kerf formation and surface roughness of the cut sheets were investigated. In order to obtain optimum results with fewer experiments, L18 (21x32) experimental design was made with the Taguchi method. Azote gas was used during cutting. 9 and 12 bar gas pressure, 3000-4000-5000 mm/min cutting speed and 2500-3000-3500 W laser power were selected as cutting parameters. At the end of the experiments, the upper kerf width (KWT), lower kerf width (KWB), kerf taper (KT) and avarage surface roughness (Ra) were measured. Taguchi and multiple analysis were performed to determine the optimum parameters at minimum values. CS was the most effective parameter for KWB and KT. For KWT and Ra, the most effective parameter was P. At the end of the multiple optimizations, the ideal cutting parameters were found as GP 11,6667 bar, CS 4131,3131 mm/min and P 2500 W. © 2022, TUBITAK. All rights reserved.