The Optimal Cutting - Parameter Selection of Production Cost in Turning Operations using Genetic Algorithm

Optimization of machining parameters is an important step in machining optimization for operating CNC machines. A human process planner selects the proper machining parameters from the handbook or his own experience based on the part geometry, technological requirement, the machine tool, cutting tool material and work piece material. For optimization of a machining process, any of the following criteria may be used

• Maximum profit rate

• Minimum production time.

The success of the machining operation will depend on the selection of machining parameters. Some researchers optimized machining parameters by using only one variable without considering any constraints. However, it is very clear that we can obtain the real optimum values of machining parameters only after considering all the variables and constraints simultaneously. In this paper, a turning operation has been considered. The machining parameters such as depth of cut, speed and feed are obtained using a Genetic Algorithm (GA), to yield minimum total production cost which consider technological constraints such as allowable speed, feed, surface finish, tool wear, temperature, tolerance and work piece rigidity. The method proposed in the present work based on the Genetic Aigorithm(GA) always yields minimum production time and minimum production cost. This approach can be easily modified for other machining operation.