An Integrated RSM - improved salp swarm algorithm for quality characteristics in AWJM of Ananas comosus-HIPS composites

Abstract

Natural fiber based polymer composite materials are increasingly used in wider applications due to their low weight and improved mechanical qualities. However, due to their inherent heterogeneity, anisotropy, and temperature sensitivity, traditional machining of composite materials is difficult. Abrasive water jet (AWJ) cutting is a non-traditional machining technique that has recently been used to fabricate polymer matrix component parts. Therefore, this study focuses on the machinability of ananas comosus–high impact polystyrene composites (each wt50%) using the AWJ process. The experiments were conducted and analyzed using central composite design (four-factor, five-level) and the response surface methodology, respectively. The mathematical models between process parameters, kerf inclination, entry delamination factor (DF) and exit DF were established and confirmed by verification. Analysis of variance was utilized to examine the influence of each input parameter on the responses. The AWJ machined surfaces were examined using a SEM images. Further, the developed models were coupled to the improved salp swarm algorithm, which was used to find the best cutting parameters for the minimizing of kerf inclination, entry DF, and exit DF, which are all important quality aspects. During the confirmatory tests, only minor differences (less than 2%) between the predicted and experimental results were observed.