Optimization of In-feed Centreless Cylindrical Grinding Process Parameters Using Grey Relational Analysis

This paper presents an effective approach for the optimization of an in-feed centreless cylindrical grinding of EN52 austenitic grade steel (DIN: X45CrSi93) with multiple performance characteristics based on the grey relational analysis. To study the effect of the entire space of the input variables, nine experimental runs, based on the Taguchi method of L9 orthogonal arrays, were performed to determine the best factor level condition. The response table and response graph for each level of the machining parameters were obtained from the grey relational grade. In this study, the in-feed centreless cylindrical grinding process parameters, such as dressing feed, grinding feed, dwell time and cycle time, were optimized by taking into consideration the multiple-performance characteristics like surface roughness and out of cylindricity. By analyzing the grey relational grade, it was observed that dressing feed, grinding feed and cycle time had significant effect on the responses. The optimal multiple performance characteristics were achieved with dressing feed at level 1 (5 mm/min), grinding feed at level 2 (6 mm/min), dwell time at level 2 (2.5 s), and cycle time at level 2 (11 s). It is clearly shown that the above performance characteristics in the in-feed Centreless cylindrical grinding process can be improved effectively through this approach.