Parametric Optimization in Machine Made Tufted Carpets for Abrasion Wear and Tuft Withdrawal Force

Abstract

This present study highlights optimization problem for selection of optimal parameters in manufacturing of machine made tufted carpet using Taguchi optimization module technique. In this study, Tufting speed (N), Stitch Rate (SR), Gauge size (G) have been considered, for optimizing quality characteristics such as Abrasion Wears (mg) tuft withdrawal force (kgf) based on Taguchi L9 orthogonal array experimental design. Lower the better criteria for Abrasion Wears and higher the better criteria for tuft withdrawal force, are desirable to achieve better quality of carpets. The study aims at evaluating the most favorable process environment followed by an optimal parametric setting for improved quality and productivity. Process parameters considered are Tufting speed (N), stitch rate (SR), Gauge size (G) and process response analyzed are Abrasion wears and tuft withdrawal force (kgf). One of the most important mechanical properties of carpet is pile strength and thickness loss in terms of tuft withdrawal force and compression behavior respectively. The study proposed the optimization for aforementioned performance characteristics by determining the optimal setting. The aim is also to identify the significant factor and their effect on quality characteristics. The results obtained thereof have been compared with the predicted results followed by confirmatory test.