A robust design in hardfacing using a plasma transfer arc

Abstract

This paper presents the use of the Taguchi-regression method in developing the optimal plasma transferred arc welding (PTAW) process for obtaining high hardfacing quality characteristics. An “optimal” process means that the best performance characteristic would be produced while the least number of process parameters are involved. In the experimental tests, the surface hardening process is conducted using Cobalt-based and Nickel-based powdery metal materials together with L 18 orthogonal arrays. The dependent variable, wear, obeys the-smaller-the-better quality characteristic, and the performance statistics, the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), are obtainable.