Taguchi based genetic approach for optimizing the PVD process parameter for coating ZrN on AZ91D magnesium alloy

Coating magnesium alloy by PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) process is highly essential for the industrial applications. The PVD process parameters play an important role in achieving better coating performance. This proposed study optimizes the PVD process parameters by Taguchi-GA (Genetic Algorithm) method. L18 orthogonal array was used for conducting the experiments. The parameters such as type of gas, chamber pressure and power input of the PVD process can be optimized to get higher micro hardness and lower wear rate. Also, the type of wear was observed using SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) microstructures. The multi objectives GA approach shows better optimal combination for attaining higher coating performances. The optimal combination has attained at parameter level G2CP1PI2 and validation test was conducted. [Display omitted] •ZrN nano coating on AZ91D magnesium alloy by using PVD sputtering process.•The Taguchi based genetic algorithm approach was used for optimizing the PVD process parameters.•The result highlights that coated materials have improved surface properties than those of uncoated material.