Parameters Optimization of Plasma Arc Cutting Process Using Grey Relational Analysis Method

Sheet metal cutting conducted by plasma cutting generally used in the manufacturing industry because the cutting result material have a good surface roughness and fast cutting times. This research conducted cutting test a low cost plasma cutting machine base on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) system. The aim of research is to decide the optimal value of setting parameters for produce the best multiple response result of plasma arc cutting process. The three important process parameters, i.e., plasma current, cutting feed, and torch height as input parameters. Two response .i.e., Material Removal Rate (MRR) and Kerf Width (KW) used to observe the performance of a low cost plasma cutting process. L9 Taguchi adopted as experimental design and the experiments conduct replicated two times. The Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) method be used for the optimization process. The maximum Material Removal Rate (MRR) and minimum kerf width (KW) could be obtained by using plasma current, cutting feed, and torch height of 35 A, 400 mm/min, 0.3 mm respectively.