Multi-objective optimization of machining parameters during milling of carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone composites using grey relational analysis

Short carbon-fiber-reinforced composites, especially short carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone composites (CF-PEEK), are used extensively in the engineering field because of their superior properties. However, their surface quality and material removal rate need to be optimized to satisfy design and processing requirements. This work focused on a multi-objective optimization to minimize the surface roughness and maximize the material removal rate during machining by grey relational analysis with an analysis-of-variance (ANOVA) and response surface methodology before a multi-objective mathematical model was established. The statistical significance of the predicted model was examined by using an ANOVA to obtain the optimal machining parameters (spindle speed, feed rate, cut depth). The optimal combination of cutting parameters was a spindle speed of 2600 rpm, a feed rate of 720 mm/min, and a cut depth of 1.8 mm.