Optimization of Cutting Conditions for CO2 Laser Cutting based on Fuzzy Mathematical Programming

Although it is still difficult to clarify the relation between cutting quality and the cutting conditions with influencing of complexities of its cutting mechanism, laser cutting has been recognized to be an indispensable technology in the recent untraditional machining. This paper deals with methodology to optimize cutting conditions such as laser power, gas pressure and cutting velocity for CO2 laser cutting of steel. This methodology has five stages. Firstly, experiments are carried out to collect data of surface characteristics produced under the various conditions. Secondly, using experimental data, multiple regression models of surface characteristics are constructed. Also, profit rate of CO2 laser cutting is formulated. Thirdly, evaluation functions are determined as to fuzzy membership function. Fourthly, optimum cutting condition based on the fuzzy mathematical programing is deduced. Finally, the satisfactory cutting condition obtained by this methodology is verified experimentally.