Minimization of Kerf Taper Angle and Kerf Width Using Taguchi's Method in Abrasive Water Jet Machining of Marble

Abrasive water jet cutting is a non-traditional machining method that offers a productive alternative to conventional techniques. It uses a fine jet of ultra high pressure water and abrasive slurry to cut the target material by means of erosion. This paper attempts to investigate kerf characteristics in abrasive water jet machining of marble which is having wide applications in domestic, commercial and industrial construction work. Three different process parameters were undertaken for this study; water pressure, nozzle transverse speed and abrasive flow rate. Experiments were conducted according to Taguchi's design of experiments. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate the data obtained to determine the major significant process factors statistically affecting the kerf characteristics. The results revealed that the nozzle transverse speed was the most significant factor affecting the top kerf width, the kerf taper angle.