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In this study, the effects of reinforcement ratio, drill bit material, and drilling process parameters on the cutting forces generated during the drilling of glass sphere‐reinforced polypropylene composites were investigated experimentally. Test specimens were produced by conventional injection‐moulding of glass sphere reinforced polypropylene composite materials at 5 %, 10 % and 20 % wt. ratios. High speed steel, titanium‐coated high‐speed steel, and carbide drill bits with 4 mm diameter were preferred for drilling. In addition, the drilling process was carried out on a 3‐axis computer numeric control milling machine. Three different feed rates of 0.05 mm/rev, 0.10 mm/rev, and 0.15 mm/rev and cutting speeds of 12 m⋅min−1, 16 m⋅min−1, and 20 m⋅min−1 were determined for the drilling process. In addition, Taguchi experimental optimization method, analysis of variance and scanning electron microscopy were used to investigate the morphology of the drilled surface and the wear mechanisms occurring on the drill bit due to the drilling process. The test findings showed that the maximum torque value was 54.64 N⋅mm and the maximum thrust force was 100.43 N. The optimum test parameter for cutting forces was observed as C1D3FR1CS3. Drill parameter had an effect of 40.96 % on thrust force and 36.11 % on torque. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we determine the trends and weights of the structural parameters on the heat transfer, flow resistance and comprehensive performance of high pressure direction (HPD)‐type perforated fins using Taguchi method and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings underscore the fin height as the most pivotal element affecting comprehensive performance, with its contribution ratio of 42.2%. Ultimately, the highest j‐factor, the lowest f‐factor, and the maximum JF‐factor were obtained as the objective functions, yielding the three most optimal sets of parameters. The findings reveal a remarkable 89.7% reduction in the f‐factor of the optimized HPD‐type perforated fins, accompanied by a substantial 127% augmentation in the JF‐factor compared to the HPD‐type fins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored using ultrafiltration (UF) membranes to treat pulp and paper mill wastewater, implementing a novel Taguchi experimental design to optimize operating conditions for pollutant removal and minimal membrane fouling. Researchers examined four factors: pH, temperature, transmembrane pressure, and volume reduction factor (VRF), each at three levels. Optimal conditions (pH 10, 25°C, 6 bar, VRF 3) led to a 35% reduction in flux due to fouling and high pollutant rejections: total hardness (83%), sulfate (97%), spectral absorption coefficient (SAC254) (95%), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) (89%). Conductivity had a lower rejection rate of 50%. Advanced imaging techniques like atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed reduced membrane fouling under these conditions. The Taguchi method effectively identified optimal conditions, significantly improving wastewater treatment efficiency and promoting environmental sustainability in the pulp and paper industry. Practitioner Points: This study optimized UF membrane conditions for pulp and paper mill wastewater, reducing fouling and enhancing pollutant removal, offering practical strategies for industrial treatment.AFM and SEM provided key insights into membrane fouling and mitigation, promoting real‐time diagnosis and optimization for enhanced treatment efficiency.Prioritizing anaerobic fixed‐bed systems in wastewater treatment is beneficial for achieving high COD removal efficiency. Optimizing hydraulic retention time (HRT) in these systems can further improve their overall effectiveness and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimization of performance parameters, in particular the yield of the synthesis reaction of β‐enaminones in demineralized water, is crucial to improve their efficiency and accuracy. In this report, we investigate the optimization of the synthesis of β‐ketoenamines in deionized water by controlling several parameters such as reaction time, temperature, amine equivalent, acid percentage, and stirring rate. An orthogonal L16 (45) network was created using Taguchi's approach, allowing for the best possible parameters. To forecast the contribution of each parameter, analysis of variance (ANOVA) techniques are also used. Multiple linear and nonlinear regression (MLR, MNLR) and multilayer perception artificial neural network (MLP‐ANN) predictive models were developed. Analysis of the results led to optimized design parameters, with time = 6 h, temperature = 25°C, amine equivalent = 1.5, acid percentage = 20%, and stirring rate = 1000 rpm, leading to a maximum yield of 63%. ANOVA analysis revealed that temperature, stirring rate, acid percentage, and time are the parameters with the greatest influence. The least sensitive parameter is the amine equivalent. The two main interactions are temperature * acid % and amine equivalent * rpm. The MLP‐ANN predictions are in good agreement with the experimental values, resulting in a higher R2 compared to the quadratic regression model and the MLR model. By using molecular docking studies, the produced compounds' biological activity was investigated. Some of the synthesized compounds appear to be interesting and could be used for therapeutic applications. The results of this study give us insight into the gentle, cost‐effective, and biologically active synthesis of β‐enaminones in deionized water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E‐glass fibers are widely preferred due to ease of processing and its low cost, which has substantial scope in the fields of electronics and electrical insulation applications. Because of its low strength and corrosion resistance, use of E‐glass fibers is limited in aerospace and automotive applications. There is a need for enhancing the properties of the composite to overcome such limitations. Therefore, an attempt is made to introduce multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) as fillers into E‐glass fibers to meet the industry needs. In the current study, woven glass fiber of 5 layers and multi‐walled nano carbon fillers of 2, 4 and 6 by wt%, LY556 epoxy resin, and HY951 hardener were used to prepare 4 different type of composites along with the neat epoxy glass fiber reinforced polymer composites (GFRP). The hand‐layup route was used in the composite preparation due to its low cost, technological feasibility, and simple process setup. The developed samples were characterized for mechanical properties via tensile, flexural and impact tests. Tribological characteristics were performed by air jet erosion test. Chauvenet's criterion is applied for identifying the outliers (if any) from the data of repeated test properties. Taguchi's L9OA (orthogonal array) is selected for obtaining optimal hybrid composite, which yield better mechanical properties. Empirical relations are developed for the material properties in terms of process variables. The sample (4 wt% MWCNT) exhibited enhancement of 17.27% in tensile strength, 6% of impact strength and 7.3% of flexural strength when compared with neat epoxy GFRP. This hybrid composite is considered for thermal aging and observed at 60°C, 8% increase in tensile, 7% increase of impact and 15% in flexural strength due to the precipitation on carbon nano tubes along the gain boundaries. The present study recommends 4% MWCNT fillers in developing hybrid glass epoxy polymer composites for use in aerospace, automotive and civil construction industries due to economic and technological feasibility. Highlights: Utilize low‐cost E‐glass fibers in electronics and electrical insulation applications.Improve composite properties for aerospace and automotive industries.Develop hybrid glass epoxy composites with 2 to 6 wt% MWCNT fillers.Examine wear characteristics under air jet erosion and study the impact of thermal aging on mechanical properties.Apply Chauvenet's criterion for outlier identification in measured properties datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites (NFRCs) are increasingly favored over synthetic fiber‐reinforced alternatives due to their beneficial properties and environmental sustainability. Mechanical properties of composites are critical to ensure optimized utilization of NFRCs. Here, this research explores the effects of different fiber parameters on the tensile strength of high‐density polymer composites reinforced with banana fiber and utilizes the Taguchi method for both experimental and statistical analysis of the outcomes. Three different parameters are considered here: weight fractions, fiber orientation angle, and plasma treatment to fabricate the composites using the compression molding process. Taguchi analysis revealed that fiber orientation angle has the greatest influence among the three variables, with plasma treatment and weight fraction following in impact on tensile strength. The composite that exhibited the highest tensile strength was determined to have a weight fraction of 10%, a fiber orientation angle of 90°, and a plasma treatment period of 5 min. This combination yielded a strength of 30.351 MPa. The analysis of the interaction between any two factors was done using contour plots. In order to compare the experimental tensile strength values with the anticipated values derived from the regression equation, regression analysis was carried out. Highlights: Composites were made up of recycled HDPE (rHDPE) from plastic bottles using a compression molding technique.The Taguchi method is applied to achieve an experimental design employing an L4 orthogonal array.Contour plot analysis is conducted to identify points of minimum and maximum responses, as anticipated from the results.Tensile strength was optimized to a maximum of 30.351 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM) has begun to replace traditional fabrication because of its advantages, such as easy manufacturing of parts with complex geometry, and mass production. The most important limitation of AM is that dimensional accuracy cannot be achieved in all parts. Dimensional accuracy is essential for high reliability, high performance, and useful final products. This study investigates the impact of printing parameters on the dimensional accuracy of samples fabricated through fused deposition modeling (FDM), an additive manufacturing (AM) method utilizing polylactic acid (PLA) material. The experimental design process was performed using Taguchi methodology. ANOVA was used to determine the most important parameter affecting accuracy. Based on experimental studies, the optimal printing parameters for parts are determined as follows: concentric infill pattern, 3 mm wall thickness, 70% infill density, and a layer thickness of 200 μm. Artificial neural network (ANN) was used in the evaluation and prediction of the results. The R‐square (R2) performance evaluation criterion was above 95% from the ANN results. This value shows that the results are significant. The data acquired from this study may assist in identifying optimal parameters that contribute to the fabrication of samples with high dimensional accuracy using the FDM method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to fast reaction with isocyanates, polyaspartic acid esters (PAAE) can be used for the development of microcapsules for self‐healing coatings. Microcapsules with encapsulated PAAE into shell formed by UV‐cured commercial epoxy‐acrylate resin were produced through oil‐in‐water emulsion polymerization triggered by UV light. The obtained microcapsules were characterized by FTIR, TGA, optical microscopy, and SEM. Various encapsulation parameters, including core to shell ratio, agitation speed, emulsifier type and concentration, solvent type and its concentration in the oil phase, have been selected at four different levels. Microencapsulation was optimized using Taguchi L16 parameter design approach for determination of desired outcome as larger is better (maximal core content) and nominal is better (microcapsule diameter of 50 μm). It was determined that conditions to prepare microcapsules with the highest core content and the microcapsule size close to 50 μm are rather similar requiring core‐to‐shell ratio at about 4:1, low agitation speed of 500–1000 rpm, and the use of two polymeric emulsifiers poly(vinyl alcohol) and Gum Arabic at concentration of about 2%. Primary benefits of UV‐induced shell formation during microencapsulation of active compounds are remarkably shorter time of the process and possibilities to reach high core content and prepare microcapsules of desirable size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is focused on the investigation of the mechanical characteristics of Timoho fiber (TF) epoxy composites with graphene as the filler material, both experimentally and numerically, for high‐velocity impacts. The composites were prepared by the compression molding process with varying wt.% of graphene. An experimental approach was undertaken to study the behavior of the composites under different wt.% of graphene. To validate the results obtained in the experimental approach, numerical studies were conducted. It was observed that there was an enhancement in the mechanical properties with the addition of graphene. For tensile strength, there was an increase of 33.17% when comparing the controlled sample (0% graphene) and the sample with 2% graphene content. Subsequently, there was an increase of 36.48%, 58.02%, and 29.79% when comparing the controlled samples and samples with 2% graphene, respectively, for flexural, impact, and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS). However, it was observed that after the addition of 2 wt.% of graphene, the mechanical strength decreased due to the agglomeration of graphene inside the composite, which was confirmed using the SEM analysis. For the numerical study, ANSYS workbench was employed, and simulation was conducted using finite element analysis (FEA) for the tensile and flexural test. The numerical findings were found to be reasonably close to the experimental values, with variations ranging from a minimum of 2% to a maximum of 15%. In the design of experiments, Taguchi's approach was used to determine the effect of a variety of parameters on the tensile behavior of the TF epoxy composites. Highlights: 2 wt.% of graphene was observed to be the optimum concentration of graphene.The decline in mechanical properties was observed at 3 and 4 wt.% of graphene.Agglomeration of graphene filler in the composite was confirmed using SEM.ANOVA showed that wt.% of graphene made the top contribution to tensile strength.The nanographene‐incorporated TF composites can be used for lightweight applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilizes the mold flow analysis technique of the injection compression molding (ICM) process, combined with the Taguchi--gray relational analysis (GRA), for process optimization analysis on the roundness of the lens holes and the flatness of the lens mount in a 4 x 4 planar multilens array mount. After manufacturing simulation analysis, the eccentricity and tilt information of the lens mount was further evaluated optically through spot diagram analysis upon inserting the same glass lenses. The results showed a positive correlation trend between roundness and flatness in structural deformation analysis, indicating that improving the overall flatness of the lens mount can enhance the roundness of the lens holes. In optical analysis, better improvements in the lens tilt angle were achieved through GRA. In conclusion, aiming to simultaneously improve the roundness of the lens holes and the overall flatness of the lens mount, the Taguchi--GRA method can achieve the optimization objectives. In terms of optical performance, by optimizing for roundness, it is possible not only to reduce the diameter of the light spot but also to simultaneously reduce the offset displacement of the light spot center on the screen. The method proposed in this paper can serve as an analytical model for the design and fabrication of plastic multilens mount. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we optimized the recipe of ground tire rubber (GTR) containing natural rubber--based vulcanizates using the Taguchi method. We examined the effect of the amount of different components on the mechanical properties of natural rubber--based vulcanizates containing GTR. We determined the individual impact of each component on the tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus, tear strength, and hardness of the vulcanizates. However, when multiple components are changed simultaneously, understanding the underlying processes can be challenging. Nevertheless, using the Taguchi method, we were able to decide which component quantity we needed to modify to enhance a specific mechanical property. With the Taguchi method, we determined how and to what extent each component influences the tensile strength of vulcanizates in a sulfur-based vulcanization system. Finally, based on the results, we formulated a recipe to produce a vulcanizate with approximately 43% higher tensile strength compared to the reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass is one of the promising sources to produce green H2, which can be considered an energy storage medium. To produce high‐purity H2 from biomass‐derived syngas, this study implemented a two‐stage H2 purification process. In the first stage, a water gas shift reaction (WGSR) was performed to enhance the H2 concentration in the syngas. The Taguchi method was employed to analyze the influence of the operating conditions and maximize the H2 concentration in the water gas shift reaction product. The results suggested that reaction temperature is a more dominant factor for enhancing the H2 concentration than the molar steam/carbon monoxide (S/CO) ratio. In the second stage, vacuum pressure swing adsorption was employed to obtain the high‐concentration H2 using the product from the water gas shift reaction having the optimum H2 concentration. Using the adsorption pressure as the primary parameter, it was found that high H2 purity and recovery could be obtained from vacuum pressure swing adsorption operated at low adsorption pressures. Based on this study's results, the vacuum pressure swing adsorption unit's best outcome occurs during an adsorption pressure of 2 kg·cm−2 and a flow rate of 17 L·min−1. Under these conditions, 93.61% H2 purity, 31.63% H2 recovery, 4.86 mol H2·(kgads·h)−1 productivity, and 448.14 kJ·(kg H2)−1 energy consumption are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas separation process is an effective method for capturing and removing CO2 from post‐combustion flue gases. Due to their various essential properties such as ability to improve process efficiency, polymeric membranes are known to dominate the market. Trade‐off between gas permeability and selectivity through membranes limits their separation performance. In this study, solution casting cum phase separation method was utilized to create polyethersulfone‐based composite membranes doped with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and silico aluminophosphate (SAPO‐34) as nanofiller materials. Membrane properties were then examined by performing gas permeation test, chemical structural analysis and optical microscopy. While enhancing membranes CO2 permeance, SAPO‐34 and CNTs mixture improved their CO2/N2 selectivity. By carefully adjusting membrane casting factors such as filler loadings. Using Taguchi statistical analysis, their carbon capture efficiency was improved. The improved mixed‐matrix membrane with loading of 5 wt% CNTs and 10 wt% SAPO‐34 in PES showed highly promising separation performance with a CO2 permeability of 319 Barrer and an ideal CO2/N2 selectivity of 12, both of which are within the 2008 Robeson upper bound. A better mixed‐matrix membrane with outstanding CO2/N2 selectivity and CO2 permeability was produced as a result of the synergistic effect of adding two types of fillers in optimized loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical properties of polymeric membranes are critical factors for a successful and durable application in water treatment technologies. Fabricating membranes with optimal mechanical properties require delicate balancing between material, additives, processing conditions, porosity, and many other variables. Several variables to be optimized demands detailed experimental and computational investigations. The design of experiments (DOEs) technique using a validated framework with a computational model for the prediction of the elastic behavior can lower the number of conducted experiments for optimal membrane fabrication conditions. In this study, optimization of the elastic modulus of polymeric membranes is performed using DOE with computational modeling and validated with experiments. The optimum storage modulus of polymeric nano‐filled membranes is determined at an operating temperature of 35°C. DOE is employed with a three‐factor–three‐level problem. The Taguchi DOE is utilized to obtain the experiments scheme, followed by the prediction of the storage modulus and fabrication of the polymeric nano‐filled membrane with the optimum modulus. Predicted results demonstrate that the modulus of polyether sulfone (PES) reinforced with 0.3 wt.% halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) is the optimum combination. The fabricated PES/0.3 wt.% HNT membrane is in good agreement with the predicted modulus with a percentage error of 3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to simulate the process of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) during gas injection along with nanoparticles and investigate the affecting parameters in a conventional carbonate oil reservoir. Ansys Fluent software with a suitable multiphase model was used to simulate natural gas injection with a nanoparticle into a core sample. The simulation model was validated with a laboratory test of natural gas injection. Then, to obtain the optimal values of each of the parameters affecting the process of EOR during the natural gas injection along with nanoparticles, the design of the experiment was carried out with the help of Qualitek‐4 software and the Taguchi method. Therefore, three factors, including nanoparticle type (clay, titanium oxide, and silica nanoparticles), nanoparticle diameter (2–50 nm), and the volume fraction of nanoparticles in the base fluid (0.5–5 vol.%), as influential factors on the EOR during natural gas injection along with nanoparticles were chosen. The results of the numerical study indicated that silica nanoparticles significantly affect EOR more than clay and titanium oxide nanoparticles. Moreover, the smaller the diameter of nanoparticles (close to 2 nm) and the more significant the volume fraction of nanoparticles in the base fluid (close to 5 vol.%), the higher the oil recovery factor will be. This phenomenon occurs due to changes in the density and viscosity of the base fluid and, consequently, improves the mobility ratio of the injected fluid. On the other hand, the tiny size of nanoparticles allows them to easily enter the pores of the reservoir rock without entrapping and producing oil from them. Eventually, the highest oil recovery factor (59%) was obtained using silica nanoparticles with a diameter of 2 nm and a volume fraction of 5 vol.% in natural gas injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐speed oxy‐fuel warm showering is utilized to cover Q235 steel with Fe32Cr21Co21Ni16Si5B5 and Fe43Cr16Co12Ni14Si5B10. The resistance of coatings to slurry wear is tested using a jet‐type apparatus. Investigations of the surface are conducted. Taguchi's and wear model verify the significance of impact of the most important factors. In this case, the wear model's proposed process closely matches with the experiments. In this study, the impact velocity was entitled as the most influential component, with a commitment proportion of 70 %, trailed by the impingement point, with proportions of 28.16 % and 28.70 % for Fe32Cr21Co21Ni16Si5B5 and Fe43Cr16Co12Ni14Si5B10, separately. It is by and large concurred that the main success of the control boundaries is influence speed>impingement point>erodent feed rate>erodent size for Fe43Cr16Co12Ni14Si5B10, and the opposite is true for Fe43Cr16Co12Ni14Si5B10. Scanning electron microscopy has shown that the principal erosion processes for Fe32Cr21Co21Ni16Si5B5 and Fe43Cr16Co12Ni14Si5B10 coatings are miniature cutting and blended cutting and furrowing at low impingement point while platelets are apparent at ordinary impingement point. Coatings formed passivation films, as shown by their greater value relative to the substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective laser melting is an additive manufacturing technology whereby parts are built through selective melt of a powder bed by a laser beam. This technology is used to produce net shape parts in 3D printers. In this study, the effect of selective laser melting parameters on the mechanical properties (ultimate tensile strength and hardness) of iron has been experimentally extracted, and the optimum levels of the parameters have been determined for optimum mechanical properties using signal‐to‐noise analysis. The selected parameters include the laser power, the laser scanning speed, and the laser hatch distance, and the design of experiments was done by the Taguchi method. The main effects of factors and interactions were considered in this paper. The results show that the optimum parameter levels for the ultimate tensile strength include the laser power of 200 W, the laser scanning speed of 600 mm/s, and the hatch distance of 70 μm. The optimal parameters for hardness are similar to the maximum tensile strength, except that the optimum hatch distance is 60 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the effects of electrolytic plasma treatment (EPT) on the hardness distribution, wear resistance, and surface morphologies of titanium alloy (Ti‐6Al‐4V) at three different thermal cycles (4‐5‐6 times) are investigated. The microstructure is controlled by heat temperature and modification times of thermal cycles depending on EPT processing parameters. A novel technique to modify Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy by the process of EPT successfully occurs. The results show that the phase transformation is shown as follows: fine α and β for the low thermal cycle → irregular martensite α′ for the high thermal cycle → complete zigzag martensite α′ for the max thermal cycle. The hardness is increased from 350 ± 10HV0.05 to 530 ± 10HV0.05 after the modification. Wear tests are conducted according to the Taguchi L9 (3^3) orthogonal array. Three parameters (load, sliding speed, and sample type) with three levels examine wear rate and coefficient of friction. Optimum levels are obtained by Taguchi analysis from the experimental results. In addition, an analysis of variance is performed to find the effectiveness of the parameters. The wear surfaces are analyzed by scanning electron microscope. After the analysis, the best result is obtained in five thermal cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drop on demand (DOD) inkjet method is a cost‐efficient way of producing hydroxyapatite (HAp) microsphere scaffolds with narrow size distribution. However, DOD fabrication parameters may influence the yield and characteristics of the microsphere scaffolds. Testing different permutations and combinations of fabrication parameters is costly and time consuming. Taguchi method could be used as a predictive tool for optimizing the key fabrication parameters to produce HAp microspheres with desired yield and properties, minimizing the number of experimental combinations to be tested. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of the fabrication parameters on the characteristics of the microspheres formed and determine optimum parameter conditions for producing high yield HAp microsphere scaffolds with the desired properties intended to serve as potential bone substitutes. We aimed to achieve microspheres with high production yield, microsphere size of <230 μm, micropore sizes <1 μm, rough surface morphology and high sphericity. Experiments were conducted using Taguchi method with a L9 orthogonal array at three levels per parameter to determine optimum parameter values for (1) operating pressure, (2) shutter speed duration, (3) nozzle height and (4) CaCl2 concentration. Based on signal‐to‐noise (S/N) ratio analysis, the identified optimum parameter conditions for operating pressure, shutter speed duration, nozzle height and CaCl2 concentration to be 0.9–1.3 bar, 100 ms, 8 cm and 0.4 M respectively. The microspheres obtained had an average size of 213 μm, 0.45 μm micropore size, high sphericity index of 0.95 and high production yield of 98%. Confirmation tests and ANOVA results affirms the validity of Taguchi method in optimizing HAp microspheres with high yield, desired size, micropore size and shape. HAp microsphere scaffolds produced by optimum conditions were subjected to a 7‐day in‐vitro study. Cells remained viable and continued to proliferate (increased 1.2‐fold) over 7 days with microspheres maintaining high cell density with cells bridging between microspheres. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay increased 1.5‐fold from day 1, suggesting good osteogenic potency of HAp microspheres as potential bone substitutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic lens arrays (PLAs) have the advantages of a light weight and a compact size. However, their optical performance is often degraded by warpage, caused by the accumulation of residual stress during the injection molding process. Accordingly, the present study employs mold flow analysis simulations and a Taguchi‐Gray relational analysis (GRA) framework to optimize the processing parameters of the injection compression molding (ICM) process. The analyses focus specifically on the effects of the mold temperature, melt temperature, injection velocity, packing pressure, packing time, and compression gap on the optical path difference (OPD) and lens center displacement (LCD) of the fabricated lens array. The results confirm that the optimized processing parameters significantly improve the OPD, LCD, birefringence, and imaging properties of the PLA compared to those of a PLA fabricated using standard molding conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, underutilized Himalayan natural fiber Grewia Optiva fiber of different lengths was used as reinforcement material. The Taguchi method was applied for the optimization of fiber length, fiber weight percentage, and fiber orientation for epoxy‐based Grewia Optiva fiber reinforced composite. The influences of fiber weight percentage at four levels (10–35 wt%), fiber length at four levels (3–45 mm), and fiber orientation at two levels (unidirectional and random to the loading axis) on the mode I fracture toughness was investigated using L16 orthogonal arrays. It was found that the optimum conditions are 30 wt% of fiber, 45 mm fiber length, and fiber orientated normal to the loading axis. The mode‐I fracture toughness at optimum condition was found as 2.122 ± 0.094 MPam. The tensile, flexural, and impact strength corresponding to optimum fiber, and composite processing conditions are 336.32%, 136.93%, and 308.28% higher as compared to pure epoxy. Scanning electron micrographs of the fractured surfaces indicate good bonding of fiber and matrix and show the major fracture mechanisms such as fiber pull‐out and fiber‐matrix debonding. The fiber breaking and matrix cracking are found as a minimum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the optimum values of pickling and annealing parameters in cold rolling were obtained by using the Taguchi method. The materials taken from the hot rolling mill were subjected to pickling with different pickling times (3 min, 4 min, 5 min) parameters and then cold rolled. After this process, annealing was carried out with different annealing temperatures (700 °C, 750 °C, 800 °C), annealing times (5 min, 7.5 min, 10 min) in order to eliminate the cold working hardness. After these processes, sheet materials were subjected to skin‐pass rolling, which is the last step of the rolling process. Optimum conditions are minimum rolling force measured from the load cell positioned on the work rolls. In this direction, S/N ratios with objective function "smaller is better" and were calculated and the optimum levels of the parameters were determined as 3 min pickling time, 750 °C annealing temperature and 10 min annealing time. In line with the findings obtained from the analysis of variance, it was determined that the most important parameter was the annealing time with a rate of 48.99 %. Confirmation experiments were carried out and it was concluded that the optimization was valid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of integrated energy system (IES), it has become a trend to form multiple integrated energy systems (MIESs) in a certain region. However, there is a lack of coordination and cooperation among MIESs. This paper proposes an optimal operation model of MIESs with four cost objectives, which focuses on energy interaction among MIESs. As a non‐linear and large optimization problem, it is difficult for conventional mathematical methods to solve. Hence, this paper proposes a hybrid Taguchi‐compact salp swarm algorithm (TCSSA). The compact technique can save the operation memory of model. Taguchi method can improve the convergence speed and solution accuracy of model. The proposed algorithm is tested on 28 benchmark functions and applied to optimal operation of MIESs. Results demonstrate that: (1) compared with other famous algorithms, TCSSA can provide more efficient execution and better solutions. (2) The optimal operation of MIESs based on TCSSA can achieve the complementary of energy advantages, which effectively reduces the total cost of MIESs (up to 9.67%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently the new topologies of the permanent magnet (PM) motor attract a lot of attention. These newly introduced PM motors are not mature in design aspects and suffer from different perspectives. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a common design procedure to overcome these drawbacks. One of the common problems with newly introduced PM motors is the phenomenon of irreversible demagnetisation (ID) at high temperatures. So, a solution to this problem will be presented. The recently introduced ring winding axial flux PM (RWAFPM) motor is considered as a case study. First, a modified approach for modelling ID is introduced. Then, the effect of rotor geometry parameters on the ID of the RWAFPM motor is discussed. Finally, developed multi‐level multi‐objective design optimisation considering ID is presented based on the developed Taguchi method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study developed an in‐mold induction heating system for the injection compression molding process to overcome the problem of incomplete filling of microstructures caused by the formation of skin layers and residual stress caused by flow. Moldex3D software was used with the Taguchi method to optimize the molding parameters for both injection molding and injection compression molding, with the aim of reducing warpage and improving optical quality. The in‐mold induction heating system has extremely high heating efficiency. Experiments revealed that a time of only 8 s was required to inducted‐heat up the core to the glass transition temperature which keeps the melt under a good state of flow and allows a replication rate of 97%. In addition, the ICM process can effectively reduce the flow‐induced residual stress and improve the optical properties of the obtained samples. Finally, the illuminance of the product fabricated through ICM with induction heating for 10 s was 2.3 times higher than that of the product obtained through ICM without induction heating. Accordingly, the proposed induction heating system is feasible for use in ICM the rapid manufacturing of high‐quality optical products with microstructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite offering several benefits in terms of environment and economics, few studies were conducted on the ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) based alkali‐activated concrete reinforced with recycled tire steel fibers (RTSFs). Therefore, this paper employed the Taguchi method to investigate and optimize the influence of GGBFS content, the alkaline solution to GGBFS content ratio, sodium hydroxide solution concentration, and RTSF volume fraction on splitting tensile strength (STS) of recycled tire steel fiber‐reinforced alkali‐activated slag concrete (RTSFR‐AASC). The microstructural evaluation was done through scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The results indicated that the fiber content, the most efficient parameter on STS, led to a considerable enhancement in the performance characteristic. Microstructural analysis proved the variations in formation of C–S–H gel. The results of the confirmation experiment on the proposed optimized RTSFR‐AASC mixture with the highest 28‐day STS (7.11 MPa) confirmed the effectiveness of the Taguchi method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new portable resin injection device has been developed to repair barely visible impact damage (BVID) in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates. Repair was conducted on damaged 16‐ and 24‐ply laminates at two different ambient pressures, that is, atmospheric pressure and vacuum, using three different adhesive types, that is, neat epoxy, epoxy blended with respective halloysite nanotubes (E1HNT) and carbon nanotubes (NF100). The repair effectiveness was assessed by infrared thermography and in‐plane compression testing. All damaged laminates suffered significant degradation in fracture properties as compared to pristine laminates. According to Taguchi method, the main factor affecting the repair efficiency is the laminate ply number. The findings revealed that the optimal repair parameters corresponds to using neat epoxy or E1HNT in vacuum could restore the elastic properties and using E1HNT adhesive at atmospheric pressure could restore the fracture properties of damaged 16‐ply laminate after repair. Regardless of repair parameters, the repair efficiency for the mechanical properties of 24‐ply laminates revealed minimal restoration to the laminate pristine conditions after repairing the damaged laminates due to the complexity of BVID for allowing the adhesive to infiltrate and filled the crack structures. The choice of repair parameters was discussed based on the effectiveness of restoring elastic and fracture properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new, efficient and environmental benign one‐pot protocol for the synthesis of α‐bromoacetophenones has been designed via the regioselective monobromination of aromatic carbonyl compounds with Bromodimethylsulfonium Bromide (BDMS) in catalytic environment of MgO nanoparticles and products were obtained in moderate to superior yields. Structure of synthesized compounds were elucidated by their 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, further Taguchi based optimization is utilized to maximize the product yield using L27 Orthogonal Array (OA) constructed by five control factors including acetophenones (AP), BDMS, Temperature, Time and MgO with their three levels. The optimal level of AP, BDMS, Temperature, Time and MgO are found up to 1.0 mmol, 2.0 mmol, 60 °C, 50 Min and 10 mol%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilizes the Taguchi optimization technique to investigate the effects of FDM processing parameters on the Charpy impact strength of 3D printed CF/PA composites experimentally and statistically. The four 3D printing parameters employed in the experiment are the infill density, raster angle, extruder temperature, and printing speed, which were used to create the experimental plan with the L18 orthogonal array. Signal to noise (S/N) ratios and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were utilized to identify the optimum values and the interactions between the process parameters. SEM and thermography techniques were employed to assess the microstructural and damage status of the CF/PA composite specimens. ANOVA results determined that only three factors–infill density, raster angle, and extruder temperature–had a statistical significance, while printing speed did not. The outcomes demonstrated that the optimal 3D printing parameters are infill density (100%), raster angle (60°), extruder temperature (260°C), infill density (100%), and printing speed (30 mm/s), with the maximum contribution of 54.19% belonging to infill density, and the minimum contribution of 2.84% belonging to printing speed. The optimal combination of these 3D printing parameters yielded a Charpy impact strength of 10.54 kJ/m2, resulting in an increase of almost 150% compared to the worst‐case situation. The Taguchi approach proves to be a proficient technique to boost the Charpy impact strength of 3D‐printed CF/PA composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The best operating condition of the exhaust thermoelectric generator (ETEG) provides more power output and low‐pressure drop (low‐PD). So it is required to optimize the operating condition of the ETEG. In the present work, Taguchi's L18(61 33) orthogonal array was chosen to find the optimal parameters. Analysis of variance was used to determine the percent contribution of the control factors such as engine loads (ELs), different types of heat exchangers (HEs) with and without inserts, water flow rate (WFR), and external load resistance (ELR) on the thermoelectric power output and PD in the HE. The confirmation test was carried out at optimum levels for the regression equations and Taguchi method. Gray relational analysis was performed to find the optimum value of the power output and PD. It is observed that the optimal operating condition is EL6 HE1 WFR3 ELR2 (EL6 = 10 kg, HE1 = G‐type test section, WFR3 = 0.08 kg/s, and ELR2 = 40 Ω). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marble dust and basalt powder are industrial waste generated during the machining of marble stone and basalt rock. This paper presents an approach for the optimization of dry sliding wear parameters of aluminium 7075 reinforced with marble dust and basalt powder hybrid metal matrix composite using Taguchi based grey relational analysis. In this work, the composite is fabricated by stir casting technique and the wear parameters namely load, sliding velocity and sliding distance are optimized with consideration of multi responses such as wear rate and coefficient of friction. Experiments are conducted as per Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array. A grey relational analysis is carried out and grey relational grade is obtained. Based on the grey relational grade, optimum level of wear parameters has been identified by analysis of variance. The test results are validated by conducting the confirmation test. Experimental results have shown that the sliding velocity is the most effective factor among the control parameters on dry sliding wear, followed by the sliding distance and load. Finally, the micro structural investigations on the worn surfaces are performed by scanning electron microscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, a three‐dimensional numerical model has been built using ANSYS code to analyze the static and fatigue behavior of a welded design based on four rectangular profiles under damped loads for automotive application. The fatigue of the proposed design is generally influenced by a number of factors. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the load level, the stress ratio, the mean stress theory, the geometry size, the weld bead height, the temperature of the weld bead on the durability (P1), and the maximum of von Mises stress (P2) at the critical areas in the welded structure. As well as the length and the stiffness of the spring have been furtherly investigated. For this purpose, the application of the Taguchi method with computational simulation was performed for the target to determine the optimum operating parameters conditions. The results indicated that the optimum levels yielding a higher performance for P1 and P2 were (L1, L2, L2, L3, L1, L1, L3, and L3) and (L2, L3, L3, L3, L3, L3, L3, and L2), respectively. Thus, it revealed that the weld temperature was the predominant parameter influencing P1 and the mean stress theory factor was the most significant parameter influencing P2. This study led to defining a regression equation relating the output parameters with the selected factors. Consequently, the percentage error between regression equation calculations and computational outputs of fatigue life and maximum von Mises stress corresponding to the most optimal combinations obtained from Taguchi calculations was 0.92% and 0.63%, respectively. In fact, several parameters have been employed in this durability assessment to characterize the behavior of welded rectangular profiles prototype to predict the overall behavior of the suspension system of the automotive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, in the tire industry, carbon black has been replaced by silica as a reinforcing filler for the development of "green tires". The "green" claim comes from the fact that silica‐reinforced materials help further reduce rolling resistance, save vehicle fuel and reduce CO2 emissions to the environment. Silica‐silane technology dramatically contributes to the field tire industries by saving fuel. However, unlike carbon black mixing, silica mixing is complicated as it involves several reactions inside an internal mixer. In this paper, we have evaluated the effects of mixing parameters and optimized the silica‐filled elastomer compound using the design of experiments (Taguchi and Response surface method). Silanization temperature and time are found to be crucial parameters for silanization. Compounds mixed using optimized mixing parameters show superior performance properties compared to the control. Filler dispersion in the optimized batch was better and characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Tan δ @60°C as an indication of rolling resistance is improved by 23% indicating the better fuel economy of this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perlite and some recycled materials are preferably used to provide thermal insulation and lightness in mortar. Cement is often used as a binder in such a composite, although it makes the composite heavier and impairs its insulation properties. In this study, recycled bottom ash (BA) and expanded perlite (EP) as the aggregate, and cement as the binder and the optimum solution were investigated by using Taguchi Method. Depending on the specimens prepared using orthogonal array L9, the values of compressive strength, flexural strength, flowability, dry unit weight, water absorption, capillarity coefficient, and thermal conductivity coefficient were calculated. In general, it was found that the cement dosage was the most effective parameter and the thermal conductivity coefficient increased in parallel with the increase in unit weight and strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency, power density, and torque of axial flux generators are higher than those of radial flux generators. In this paper, a new axial flux switching generator with a coreless stator is designed for micro wind turbine applications. Generator parts are designed based on nominal values, and their dimensions are determined. Cogging torque is an undesired torque ripple intrinsic in the design of a permanent magnet generator, which should be minimized due to its effects: vibration and noise. In addition, since aerodynamic power is low during start‐up at low wind speeds, the cogging torque must be as low as possible to achieve a low cut‐in speed. The design, optimization, and fabrication of a new coreless axial flux‐switching generator for micro‐wind turbine application are investigated and compared with the conventional one. The prototype machine is an axial‐field flux‐switching permanent magnet generator with a two‐rotor‐one‐stators configuration. The stator of the proposed generator is made up of coils and magnets and has no iron core. First, the generator's design to reduce cogging torque is investigated using nominal values, and the dimensions of the various parts of the generator are calculated according to these values. Then the designed generator was simulated three‐dimensionally using the FEM. Finally, a prototype of the desired generator is built. Comparing the results obtained from the finite element method and laboratory testing shows that these results are broadly consistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various parameters have an impact on the fresh air temperature and input power of a hybrid membrane‐based air conditioning (HMBAC) system, such as pressure ratio, membrane selectivity, membrane permeance, membrane area, air flowrate of the dehumidification unit, and module length, number of fibers, and fiber outer diameter of the humidification unit, which comprise both operational and structural parameters. Therefore, in this study, the effects of these parameters on the system performance are examined separately based on a statistical approach. The importance order of each parameter and its contribution ratio are determined by using Taguchi method and ANOVA analysis. The optimum level for each input parameter is determined using statistical analysis for the fresh air temperature and input power. Then, for the simultaneous minimization of fresh air temperature and input power Taguchi‐gray relational grade (GRG) is used. GRG revealed that membrane selectivity, pressure ratio, and membrane permeance with the contribution ratio of 37.87%, 32.51%, and 10.55%, respectively, are the most critical parameters of the multiperformance of an HMBAC system. Interestingly dehumidification from a humid airflow can be more effective when membranes with low selectivity and high permeability are used. In conclusion, the optimization outputs disclosed that both structural and operational parameters have significant effects on the performance of the HMBAC system and this optimization can be a helpful tool for designing a HMBAC systems to cover the optimal conditions to develop a sustainable membrane‐based air conditioning system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to understand the effect of physiological and dental implant‐related parameter variations on the osseointegration for an implant‐supported fixed prosthesis. Eight design factors were considered (implant shape, diameter, and length; thread pitch, depth, and profile; cantilever [CL] length and implant‐loading protocol). Total 36 implantation scenarios were simulated using finite element method based on Taguchi L36 orthogonal array. Three patient‐specific bone conditions were also simulated by scaling the density and Young's modulus of a mandible sample to mimic weak, normal, and strong bones. Taguchi method was employed to determine the significance of each design factor in controlling the peri‐implant cortical bone microstrain. For normal bone condition, CL length had the maximum contribution (28%) followed by implant diameter (18%), thread pitch (14%), implant length (8%), and thread profile (5%). For strong bone condition, CL and implant diameter had equal contribution (32%) followed by thread pitch (7%) and implant length (5%). For weak bone condition, implant diameter had the highest contribution (31%) followed by CL length (30%), thread pitch (11%) and implant length (8%). The presence of distal CL in dental framework was found to be the most influential design factor, which can cause high strain in the cervical cortical bone. It was seen that implant diameter had more effect compared to implant length toward peri‐implant bone biomechanical response. Implant‐loading time had no significant effect towards peri‐implant bone biomechanical response, signifying immediate loading is possible with sufficient mechanical retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid and accurate assessment of software project development using artificial intelligence tools can be essential for success in the software industry. This article has two objectives: to reduce the magnitude relative error (MRE) value in estimating the effort and cost of software development using the proposed artificial neural network architecture based on the Taguchi method and examine the influence of input variables on the change in relative error value. Clustering and fuzzification methods further mitigate the heterogeneous structure of the different project values of the datasets used. Taguchi method contributes to the reduction of the number of iterations by 99%, which achieves a significant reduction in estimation and value of MRE. By monitoring additional criteria, such as prediction, correlation, and comparing two activation functions, such as sigmoid and radial basis function, the proposed model's correctness, reliability, and stability are confirmed. Significantly better results are expected using the sigmoid activation function and a decrease in the value of the mean (MRE). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasingly stringent in demand for a fuel‐saving tyre with low rolling resistance, the application of silica filler is governing the tyre industry day by day. Unlike carbon black filled rubber compound, silica compound is rather complicated as it demands, a reactive mixing where, mixing parameters of internal mixer play a vital role in the degree of silanization reaction. In this paper, a design of experiments (DOE) is carried out to screen the factors that significantly affect the silanization reaction during mixing. Taguchi method with L18 orthogonal array is employed to determine the significance of mixing parameters on the degree of silanization reaction. To quantify the significance of each mixing parameter on silanization, such as mixing temperature, mixing time, fill factor, feed door condition, ram pressure, and temperature control unit of Banbury mixer are explored. Key properties like Tan δ at 60°C, reinforcement index, and Payne effect (∆G') are considered responses for the DOE. It was observed that the silanization temperature and time were the most influencing factor in silanization using the contribution plot. In contrast, ram pressure and feed door condition have the least significance on the degree of silanization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A limited number of studies have explored drum brake noise with uncertainty. Therefore, a new method for the robust design of drum brakes is presented herein on the basis of complex modal analysis and Taguchi's robust design. Based on the finite element method, complex modal analysis is used to predict drum brake noise. Taguchi's robust design is adopted to reduce drum brake noise and improve system robustness. In this method, the Young's moduli of the brake drum, brake shoes, and friction lining are considered as control factors, the friction coefficient and brake pressure are taken as noise factors, and the weighted instability tendency coefficient is regarded as the objective function. When the proposed method is applied to drum brake design, drum brake noise is significantly reduced and system robustness is increased. Specifically, the signal‐to‐noise ratio increases by 62.94%, and the average value of the weighted instability tendency coefficient decreases by 91.7%. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A parametric sensitivity study to improve the transcription quality of the nanofibrous bifurcated‐tubular scaffold is performed to resolve the limited transcription quality issue in fabricating the scaffold based on hydrogel‐assisted electrospinning (GelES). To characterize the transcription quality of the fabricated 3D nanofibrous bifurcated‐tubular scaffold structure, two different measures of a coverage ratio (CR) and a corner profile fidelity (FC) are evaluated. Results of sensitivity analysis on CR, in which the design of experiments is based on the Taguchi method, revealed that the CR increases with decreasing tip‐to‐collector distance (TCD) and polycaprolactone concentration (CPCL). Moreover, among the processing parameters, namely, TCD, CPCL, and applied voltage (VA), the TCD is found to be the dominantly affecting processing parameter. Parametric study results show that FC increases with the branching angle (θB). By combining the optimal processing condition and a maximum θB of 120°, a leakage‐free 3D nanofibrous bifurcated‐tubular scaffold with a sharp carina is fabricated by the GelES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current research is to propose new polymer composites with optimal acoustic properties. To do so, the ethylene‐vinyl acetate foam is employed as the based polymer and the nano silica, nano clay and graphene nanoplatelets are used as extra ingredients. The appropriate amounts of the blowing agent and nano materials are determined using the Taguchi design technique. Using the L9(34) Taguchi array, different foams are manufactured and their specifications are determined experimentally. Most importantly, the sound absorption and transmission loss of the foams are measured and utilized to specify their noise reduction coefficient (NRC) as well as their average transmission loss (ATL). To maximize the NRC and ATL, optimal formulations are derived based on the Taguchi method. Then the optimal foams are manufactured to characterize their acoustic properties. Experimentations show that both NRC and ATL are respectively improved by 9.76% and 7.98% compared to the best NRC and ATL record of the samples of the Taguchi table. Some new samples with at most one nano material are also produced to study the synergistic effects of the nano materials. Measurements of the acoustic properties of these foams revealed that the combination of the nano materials offers superior acoustic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing by fused filament fabrication provides an innovative manufacturing process for new design vision and complex geometry components. This study aims to establish the relationships between the process parameters and the mechanical properties of 3D printed parts using Taguchi design of experiment. The proposed method also enables the study of the filling orientation effects on the cohesion of the printed layers and the overall fracture behavior. We reviewed and optimized the effects of the critical parameters of process such as the layer thickness, the temperature, the print speed, and the filling orientation on Young's modulus and tensile strength. Then the effect of raster angle on the cohesion between the printed layers, as well as the failure modes were analyzed. The results show that the layer thickness and the filling angle are more influential on the mechanical properties. An analysis of the fracture surfaces of tensile specimens was also performed and it indicated a fracture following the filling direction. Furthermore, the fill angle 0/90° shows the best adhesion between the printed layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current investigation, the twisted tape inserts are considered as the augmentation thermal technique, the influence of a variety of twisted tape configurations on pressure drop characteristics, temperature differences, thermal performance of fluid flow structure, heat transfer improvement, and friction factor are numerically evaluated. The changed geometrical parameters employed for this study comprise twisted tape width, twisted tape thickness, number of turns, and inward thickness are the input parameters. Design of experiments method is applied to analyze the influence of latter various types of geometrical parameters on hydraulic thermofluid pattern and heat transfer improvement in the twisted tube heat exchanger as the output variables. For the experimental design optimization Taguchi analysis is based on investigate of alterations and performs the orthogonal arrays (OA). Moreover, the OA L16 is chosen as the plan of experimental study. It is found the best design of twisted tape in this study by using computational fluid dynamics numerical methodology complained with Taguchi method the enhancement in heat transfer and hence the overall performance evaluation factor is higher than 1.2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biogas obtained from renewable resources is a viable solution for solving energy scarcity and environmental degradation. A single‐cylinder 4‐stroke natural aspirated variable compression ratio research engine was fuelled with biogas as primary and diesel as a pilot injection in this work. Experiments were designed based on Taguchi L9 OA (orthogonal array) choosing biogas flow rate, compression ratio, and engine load as input factors, while brake thermal efficiency (BTE), BSEC, CO, HC, NOx, and smoke were targeted responses. The effects level of factors on responses was analysed by using MINITAB software. The higher value of raw data and S/N ratios for BTE was observed with low biogas flow rate, higher compression ratio, and full engine load. On the other hand, lower raw data and high S/N ratio analysis for emissions characteristics (CO, HC, NOx, and smoke) were achieved in the order of rank, that is, engine load > biogas flow rate > compression ratio. With the analysis of results, optimum levels of various factors were evaluated. These results showed that the Taguchi method design was an effective tool for optimizing the elements in terms of combustion performance and emissions characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimization of fluoride removal from aqueous media was studied over the mesoporous titania‐alumina composites using Taguchi method‐based L25 orthogonal array experimental design. The chemical structure, surface chemistry, and morphology of as‐prepared composite adsorbents were studied utilizing various analytical methods. The findings of the characterization demonstrated that the produced composites have high textural qualities, which are conducive to enhanced fluoride adsorption. The optimum conditions for maximum percentage removal of fluoride from aqueous solution were found as adsorbent type as TA75, adsorbent dose 4 g L−1, initial concentration of fluoride 40 ppm, solution pH 3 with a treatment time of 60 min. Under the optimum conditions, 98% of fluoride adsorption was achieved. Analysis of variance revealed that the solution pH followed by the adsorbent dose was the most significant for fluoride adsorption. The Langmuir model and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model fit the adsorption data well, and the TA75 adsorbent had a maximum Langmuir fluoride adsorption capacity of 34.48 mg g−1 at pH = 3. The thermodynamic information suggests that the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic under the given operating conditions. The synergic combination of Ti–Al nanoparticles demonstrated a high percentage removal of fluoride under the optimized operating conditions. Practitioner Points: The Taguchi method‐based design of the experimental approach was implemented in the fluoride adsorption process.Mesoporous titania‐alumina composites with 0 to 100 wt.% of alumina in titania were prepared and applied to remove fluoride from an aqueous solution.Solution pH was the most influential parameter for the fluoride adsorption process, while the synergistic combination of 75 wt.% alumina in titania showed the maximum adsorption capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixed‐matrix membranes (MMMs) comprising polysulfone (PSF) and zeolite 4A (Z4A) were prepared for carbon capture applications. Membranes of varying compositions were fabricated by solution casting technique. Viscous solutions of dissolved ingredients were cast on a clean glass plate followed by evaporation and drying of prepared membrane. Fabricated composite membranes were subjected to morphological, structural, and permeation analyzes. The morphological results showed a uniform dispersal of zeolite nanoparticles with agglomerates formation at higher nanofiller loadings. The structural analysis corroborated the noninteractive behaviour of organic polymer and inorganic zeolite phases. Permeation results suggested that the fabricated membranes were more permeable to CO2 gas, which can be described by higher diffusivity and structural affinity for CO2. Taguchi statistical analysis was employed to optimize carbon capture performance of developed hybrid membranes by carefully controlling the membrane casting parameters such as loading levels of functional nanofiller, sonication time, and drying time of casting solution. The statistical investigation of permeation results suggested the sensitivity of casting parameters on membrane performance in the following manner: zeolite loading > sonication time > drying time. The optimized membrane casting parameters obtained from signal‐to‐noise ratio analysis performed on Minitab led to synthesis of a composite membrane with both high CO2/N2 selectivity and CO2 permeability. The chosen technique also assisted in justifying the dependence of permeation results on various membrane casting parameters, associating it with the morphological results. The technique also facilitated the optimization of the membrane characteristics and is recommended for future study based on membrane separation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the recent years, particulate reinforced aluminum based matrix composites are playing an important role in automobile and aerospace applications due to their enhanced properties. In this work, an attempt has been made to optimize the tribological behaviour of aluminum 7075 matrix reinforced with titanium carbide (3 percent weight) and basalt particles (2 percent weight) using Taguchi based grey relational analysis. Composites are fabricated according to american society for testing materials standard using stir casting method dry sliding wear tests were carried out using pin on disc apparatus as per Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array. Grey relational analysis was used to obtain the optimum process parameters for multiple quality characteristics such as wear rate and coefficient of friction. Then significant contribution of wear parameters was determined by analysis of variance. A confirmatory test was carried out to validate the test result. Finally, the micro structural investigation on the worn surfaces was performed by scanning electron microscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an eco‐friendly brake composite sample (EFP) was produced with 3.5% hazelnut shell dust as a natural additive material. Friction tests were performed on the manufactured pad sample and on a commercial pad (CP) using both a Chase‐type test machine and a specially designed device. A different approach is presented with the evaluation of the two different test device results. The experimental results were compared using the Taguchi method and it was concluded that the braking performance of the sample with hazelnut shell dust was in accordance with international standards. As a result of the study; the nominal friction coefficient value was found to be 0.505 μ. The shearing force of the EFP and CP samples was measured at 607.3 and 850.5 N, respectively. The friction coefficient values obtained from the EFP and CP samples were in accordance with the SAE J‐661 standard and are in the "F" letter class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edge effect due to the special structure of two degree‐of‐freedom direct induction motor (2DoFDDIM) results in three‐phase asymmetric current, high torque ripple, more loss and low efficiency. In this paper, to weaken edge effect of 2DoFDDIM rotary part, poles optimization is carried out considering the constraint of rotary arc‐armature size. In order to obtain optimum parameters and high efficiency of rotary part, The Taguchi method of multi‐objective optimization design is carried out. The 3D finite element models of final design and initial design of rotary part and initial design prototype are established, respectively. Through the comparison between the final design simulation, initial design simulation and test results, the results indicate that the performances of 2DoFDDIM rotary part have a great improvement after optimizations and verify the feasibility of Taguchi method used for 2DoFDDIM multi‐objective optimization design. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]