Optimization of Hole Characteristics During LTD of ZTA Plate

Excellent hardness and toughness of zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) ceramic composite make it worthy to fabricate the parts for defense, aerospace and bio-implants industries. But machining of ZTA in acceptable tolerance is challenging due to its improved properties. In this paper, optimum values of variable factors for multiple hole quality characteristics are evaluated using genetic algorithm. Multiple hole quality characteristics include circularity and taper of laser trepanned hole in thick ZTA. The overall improvement is found approximately 33%. Further, optimum results are verified with confirmation experiment that shows small variation of 4.89%.