Multi-characteristic optimization of wax patterns in the investment casting process using grey–fuzzy logic

The present investigation focuses on optimizing the injection process parameters with multiple performance characteristics in the investment casting process using the orthogonal array with grey–fuzzy logics. A grey–fuzzy reasoning grade obtained from the grey–fuzzy logics analysis is used as a performance index to determine the optimal injection process parameters. The selected injection process parameters are injection temperature, injection time, and injection pressure, while the considered performance characteristics are linear shrinkage and surface finish. The response table, response graph, and analysis of variance are used to find the optimal setting and the influence of injection process parameters on the multiple performance characteristics. The results of confirmation experiments reveal that grey–fuzzy logics can effectively acquire an optimal combination of the process parameters. Hence, quality of wax patterns in the investment casting process can be significantly improved through this approach.

[1]  A. Clegg,et al.  Precision Casting Processes , 1991 .

[2]  P. Asokan,et al.  Development of multi-objective optimization models for electrochemical machining process , 2008 .

[3]  V. N. Gaitonde,et al.  Methodology of Taguchi optimization for multi-objective drilling problem to minimize burr size , 2007 .

[4]  C. L. Lin,et al.  The use of grey-fuzzy logic for the optimization of the manufacturing process , 2005 .

[5]  Chia-Ming Chang,et al.  The use of grey-based Taguchi methods to determine submerged arc welding process parameters in hardfacing , 2002 .

[6]  Ko-Ta Chiang,et al.  The method of grey-fuzzy logic for optimizing multi-response problems during the manufacturing process: a case study of the light guide plate printing process , 2009 .

[7]  N Tosun,et al.  Determination of optimum parameters for multi-performance characteristics in drilling by using grey relational analysis , 2006 .

[8]  Ming-Hsien Caleb Li,et al.  Optimal parameter design for chip-on-film technology using the Taguchi method , 2005 .

[9]  Chang Ching-Kao,et al.  The optimal cutting-parameter selection of heavy cutting process in side milling for SUS304 stainless steel , 2007 .

[10]  Lotfi A. Zadeh,et al.  Fuzzy Sets , 1996, Inf. Control..

[11]  P. L. Jain,et al.  Principles of Foundry Technology , 1987 .

[12]  Jean Ming-der,et al.  Optimisation of electron-beam surface hardening of cast iron for high wear resistance using the Taguchi method , 2004 .

[13]  S. Ilo,et al.  Optimisation of multiple quality characteristics of hardfacing using grey-based Taguchi method , 2012 .

[14]  Phillip J. Ross,et al.  Taguchi Techniques For Quality Engineering: Loss Function, Orthogonal Experiments, Parameter And Tolerance Design , 1988 .

[15]  K. Chiang,et al.  Application of grey-fuzzy logic on the optimal process design of an injection-molded part with a thin shell feature , 2006 .

[16]  Yinghong Peng,et al.  Numerical simulation of low pressure die casting of magnesium wheel , 2007 .

[17]  Syed H. Masood,et al.  An Investigation of Wax Patterns for Accuracy Improvement in Investment Cast Parts , 2001 .

[18]  K. Chiang,et al.  Optimum design parameters of Pin-Fin heat sink using the grey-fuzzy logic based on the orthogonal arrays ☆ , 2006 .

[19]  N. Sivakumaran,et al.  Multi-objective optimisation of CNC turning process using grey based fuzzy logic , 2009 .

[20]  Uday S. Dixit,et al.  A neural-network-based methodology for the prediction of surface roughness in a turning process , 2005 .

[21]  H. S. Lu,et al.  The optimal cutting parameter design of rough cutting process in side milling , 2008 .

[22]  D.F.B. Tedds.  The investment casting process , 1954 .

[23]  Pradeep Kumar,et al.  Investigations of the effect of injection parameters on the dimensional accuracy of wax patterns used in ceramic shell investment casting , 2010, Int. J. Manuf. Technol. Manag..

[24]  P.Narender Singh,et al.  Optimization by Grey relational analysis of EDM parameters on machining Al–10%SiCP composites , 2004 .

[25]  Senay Taşcıoğlu,et al.  Conversion of an Investment Casting Sprue Wax to a Pattern Wax by Chemical Agents , 2003 .

[26]  Pradeep Kumar,et al.  Quality of v-process moulds through the taguchi technique , 1996 .

[27]  C. L. Lin,et al.  Use of the Taguchi Method and Grey Relational Analysis to Optimize Turning Operations with Multiple Performance Characteristics , 2004 .

[28]  A. Behravesh,et al.  An experimental investigation on dimensional stability of injected wax patterns of gas turbine blades , 2007 .