Statistical modelling, optimization and Sobol sensitivity analysis of effective parameters on thrust force behavior in micro-drilling of glass/epoxy laminated composites

In this study, E-glass/epoxy laminated composites with [0]12 stacking sequence manufactured by hand lay-up method. Afterwards, by considering the most important input parameters of the micro-drilling process including tool rotational speed, feed rate and tool diameter, the statistical mathematical modeling is performed to accurately investigate the thrust force response behavior versus the mentioned variables. For this purpose, using full factorial experimental design and response surface methodology and performing 54 experimental tests and considering repeatability of experiments in order to improve modeling accuracy, a second-order linear regression equation has been obtained. Also, by using the Sobel sensitivity analysis method, the quantitative effect of force behavior sensitivity versus input parameters is investigated. Moreover, the Derringer optimization algorithm is used to achieve the minimum amount of thrust force in micro-drilling process of laminated composites. The results of the statistical analysis show that the lowest feed rate, maximum tool rotational speed and smaller diameter lead to produce lowest thrust force of laminated composites. The Sobol sensitivity analysis shows that the diameter of the tool (57.8%), the feed rate (24.4%), and the rotational speed (17.8%) will have the greatest effect on thrust force in micro-drilling process, respectively. Finally, the optimization analysis show that, the lowest thrust force was obtained at a rotational speed of 2515 rpm, a feed rate of 10 mm / min and a tool diameter of 0.5 mm.