Optimization of process parameters of cryogenic treatment on Al/Al2O3 MMCs by Taguchi method for tensile strength

Abstract

Engineering materials are given different types of treatment to impart desired properties to the materials to make them suitable for the intended application. The conventional method is heat treatment. It is being followed by many centuries but the treatment of materials below the room temperature is altogether a new concept to enhance the material properties. When the materials are subjected to deep freezing up to -1960C the change in the morphology results in the stability of microstructure & dimensions. Many researchers have proved the usefulness of cryogenic treatment on ferrous materials. But a very little amount of work has been found in the area of nonferrous materials. Taguchi approach was applied to optimize the process parameters of cryogenic treatment on Al6061-Al2O3 MMCs. The results were experimentally validated. It is found that, the Taguchi approach can be used as an effective tool in optimizing the process variables to minimise the laborious effort in conduction of experiments.