Parametric optimization of ultrasonic machining process 317 the optimal settings of parameters for an USM process using Taguchi method and developed a micro-model for prediction of MRR in USM process using dimensional analysis

Ultrasonic machining process; Optimization; Gravitational search algorithm; Fireworks algorithm; Response Abstract Ultrasonic machining (USM) is a mechanical material removal process used to erode holes and cavities in hard or brittle workpieces by using shaped tools, high-frequency mechanical motion and an abrasive slurry. Unlike other non-traditional machining processes, such as laser beam and electrical discharge machining, USM process does not thermally damage the workpiece or introduce significant levels of residual stress, which is important for survival of materials in service. For having enhanced machining performance and better machined job characteristics, it is often required to determine the optimal control parameter settings of an USM process. The earlier mathematical approaches for parametric optimization of USM processes have mostly yielded near optimal or sub-optimal solutions. In this paper, two almost unexplored nonconventional optimization techniques, i.e. gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and fireworks algorithm (FWA) are applied for parametric optimization of USM processes. The optimization performance of these two algorithms is compared with that of other popular population-based algorithms, and the effects of their algorithm parameters on the derived optimal solutions and computational speed are also investigated. It is observed that FWA provides the best optimal results for the considered USM processes. 2014 Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/).