Parameter optimization of nanosecond laser for microdrilling on PVC by Taguchi method

Formation of cavities having maximum aspect ratio (depth-to-width (D/W) ratio) on PVC during laser drilling has several undesirable outcomes with regard to cavity quality. Hence it is essential to select optimum drilling process parameters to maximize aspect ratio and minimize Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) and circularity. This paper presents application of the Taguchi optimization method to obtain cavities possessing maximum aspect ratio influenced by drilling conditions such as wavelength, fluence and frequency. In the present work, the effects of laser processing parameters, including laser fluence, laser frequency and wavelength were investigated in relation to the aspect ratio, HAZ and circularity. Then the optimal values of wavelength, fluence and frequency were determined. According to the result of the confirmation experiment using optimum parameters, it was observed that experimental results were compatible with Taguchi method with 93% rate. The details of experimentation analysis and analysis of variance are presented in this paper. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.